Frigid temps aren't hard just for people and animals but for the pipes in our homes too! Although you may want to turn down your thermostat to save on your electric bill, freezing weather is not the time to do that. The amount you save on your electric bill will not compare to the repair bill for frozen and busted pipes.
According to Consumer Reports, when temperatures are 20 degrees or below, homeowners should keep an eye on pipes, especially if they have uninsulated pipes or spaces that are uninsulated. Below are a few tips to help your pipes this winter.
- Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water lines in the garage.
- Allow cold water to drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. This trickle of water will help keep water moving and prevent pipes from freezing.
- Open bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.
If you plan on being away from your home for a vacation, be sure to keep your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees. If you have a friend or trusted neighbor, it's a good idea to have them check on your home during cold snaps.
