Preventing frozen pipes during cold weather is important to avoid damage and costly repairs. Here are some effective tips you can use to avoid a costly repair during a cold Ohio winter:
Insulate Pipes
- Pipe Insulation: Install pipe insulation around water pipes, especially in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces.
- Heat Tape: Consider using heat tape or pipe heating cables for pipes that are at higher risk of freezing.
- Seal Gaps: Seal any gaps or cracks in walls, floors, or around windows and doors that could let in cold air near pipes.
Maintain Indoor Heat
- Thermostat: Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature day and night, and don’t lower it below 55°F when leaving home, even if you’re away.
- Interior Doors: Open interior doors to allow warm air to circulate to unheated areas, especially near pipes under sinks or in cabinets.
- Garage Door: Keep garage doors closed, especially if water supply lines are running through the garage.
- Cabinet Doors: Leave cabinet doors open in kitchens and bathrooms to allow warmer air to circulate around pipes.
Allow Faucets to Drip
- During extremely cold weather, allow faucets to drip slightly, especially those connected to pipes on exterior walls. This keeps water moving, reducing the risk of freezing.
- Let both hot and cold faucets drip, as even hot water pipes can freeze.
Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
- Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets (hose bibs) before freezing weather arrives. Consider using an insulated faucet cover for additional protection.
- If you have pipes in areas that won’t be in use for a while, shut off the water supply to those pipes and drain them completely.
Know How to Shut Off Water
- Make sure you and your household members know where the main water shut-off valve is located in case a pipe bursts. Quickly shutting off the water can prevent major damage.
Taking these steps can help keep your pipes from freezing, even during the coldest winter months. This is also a great time to review your personal insurance coverages or your HO-6 policy if you are a condominium unit owner. Knowing your responsibilities, coverages, and limitations will help you be prepared in the event of a leak or issue.
