Prevent Your Water Pipes From Freezing

When temperatures plummet, the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting skyrockets

When temperatures plummet, the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting skyrockets—a reality that may end up costing you a lot of time and money. In fact, burst pipes are one of the most common causes of property damage during frigid weather, according to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS). The resulting mess could lead to thousands of dollars in water damage. The pipes most at risk are those in unheated interior spaces such as basements, attics, and garages. But even pipes running through cabinets or exterior walls can freeze. There are some simple things you can do to keep your water running and your house dry.

Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply lines in the garage.

Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, especially if your sinks are on an exterior wall. (If you have small children, be sure to remove any harmful cleaners and household chemicals from the open cabinets.)

Let the cold water drip from a faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe—even at a trickle—helps prevent pipes from freezing.

Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during the day and at night. While it may be tempting to save a few bucks on your heating bill at times, a cold snap is not the time to set back the thermostat if you have pipes that are at risk of freezing.

Also know where the water shut off valve is and have a water wrench in case a pipe does burst.