Freezing temperatures are in the forecast. Here’s how to protect your pipes from damage
Temperatures are expected to dip below freezing across Pierce County in the next couple of days, according to the National Weather Service, which is always a good reminder to make sure your pipes are prepped for winter weather.
Here’s some tips to avoid indoor flooding and other problems, according to Seattle Public Utilities.
Quick tips:
During severe cold temperatures, allow one faucet indoors to slowly drip cold water. Choose a faucet that is farthest from your front door.
Don’t leave water running in unoccupied buildings.
Set your thermostat to no lower than 55 degrees day or night, even if you’re out of town.
When it drops below freezing, you should protect indoor sink pipes next to exterior walls by opening the under-sink cabinet doors to allow indoor heat to circulate.
If your pipes break or freeze, immediately close the main shut-off valve to stop flooding (this is usually in a basement, crawl space or garage). Get a plumber to repair or replace the damaged pipe as soon as possible.
Prep your pipes:
Have an emergency plan. If something happens, know how to shut off your electricity, gas and water at the main switches and valves.
Drain and remove all outdoor hoses.
Shut off and drain in-ground sprinkler systems.
Shut off and drain outside faucets.
Protect water pipes from freezing in exposed or unheated areas (like basements, attics and garages) by wrapping the pipes with tape and insulating materials from hardware stores (make sure to follow the manufacturers’ installation instructions).
To minimize cold wind from blowing into your house, caulk around pipes where they enter the house and close all foundation vents.
Thawing frozen pipes:
If you turn on a faucet and only get a trickle of water, you might have a frozen pipe. Locate the suspected frozen area (usually running against exterior walls or where your water services enters the house through the foundation).
Keep the faucet open. Running water will help melt more ice in the pipe.
Apply heat to the section of the pipe using towels soaked in hot water, an electric heating pad or an electric hair dryer. Do not use electrical devices if there is standing water and do not use an open flame device.
Apply the heat until full water pressure is restored.
Check other faucets in your home to look for additional frozen pipes, because if one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.
