Hose Winterization:
To help reduce the risk of frozen pipes, disconnect and store garden hoses before freezing temperatures arrive. Removing hoses can also help protect exterior faucets and connected plumbing from cold-weather damage.
Exterior Spigot Protection:
To help reduce the risk of frozen or burst pipes, shut off and winterize exterior water spigots before freezing temperatures arrive. Disconnect hoses and drain exterior plumbing when possible to minimize the risk of water freezing inside the pipes.
Pipe insulation:
To help protect against freezing temperatures, insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawlspaces, garages, and other areas that may be vulnerable to cold conditions. Proper insulation can help reduce the risk of frozen or burst pipes during extreme winter weather.
Indoor Temperature Stability:
To help reduce the risk of frozen pipes, maintain a consistent indoor temperature throughout the winter, even when you are away from home. Avoid turning the heat off or allowing indoor temperatures to drop significantly during periods of extreme cold.
Cabinet Warm Air Circulation:
To help protect plumbing from freezing temperatures, open cabinet doors beneath sinks during periods of extreme cold. Allowing warm air to circulate around exposed plumbing can help reduce the risk of frozen pipes, particularly along exterior walls.
Main Water Shutoff Awareness:
To be prepared for a plumbing emergency, locate your home's main water shutoff valve before an emergency occurs. Knowing how to quickly shut off the water can help minimize damage if a pipe leaks or bursts.
Foundation Drainage Awareness:
To help reduce the risk of water intrusion, keep snow and ice from accumulating directly against your home's foundation. Properly managing snow around the foundation can help reduce the amount of melted water that collects near the structure and refreezes during periods of fluctuating temperatures.
