|
Frozen water pipes aren't life threatening, however frozen or broken water
pipes do cause damage to homes each winter. If pipes in the walls aren't
properly insulated, they can freeze and rupture. (An eighth-of-an-inch crack
in a pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day, soaking floors, rugs,
and furniture.) To prevent the mess and aggravation frozen pipes cause,
protect your home or apartment by following the simple steps below.
Before Cold Weather
- Locate and insulate
pipes most susceptible to freezing--typically those near outer walls, in
crawl spaces, or in the attic. Insulation made especially for this
purpose is available.
- Wrap pipes with heat
tape (UL approved).
- Seal any leaks that
allow cold air inside where pipes are located.
- Disconnect garden
hoses and, shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside
faucets. This reduces the chance of freezing in the short span of pipe
just inside the house.
When It's Cold
- Let hot and cold water
trickle at night from a faucet on an outside wall.
- Open cabinet doors to
allow more heat to get to uninsulated pipes under a sink or appliance
near an outer wall.
- Make sure heat is left
on and set no lower than 55 degrees.
- If you plan to be
away: (1) Have someone check your house daily to make sure the heat is
still on to prevent freezing, or (2) drain and shut off the water system
(except indoor sprinkler systems).
If Pipes Freeze
- Make sure you and your
family know how to shut off the water, in case pipes burst. Stopping the
flow of water can minimize the damage to your home. Call a plumber and
contact your insurance agent.
- Never try to thaw a
pipe with an open flame or torch.
- Always be careful of
the potential for electric shock in and around standing water.
For additional winter preparedness information contact the nearest office
of the National Weather Service, local American Red Cross Chapter, local
emergency services office, or the Virginia Department of Emergency Management
at 10501 Trade Court, Richmond, Virginia 23236.
|
