Stafford County issued the following announcement on Dec. 2
The bad news is that freezing pipes can cause unnecessary, expensive damage during the winter. The good news is that damage is avoidable. The pipes most at risk are those in unheated interior spaces such as basements, attics and garages. As temperatures begin to drop over the coming weeks, now is the time to start taking preventative measures to protect your pipes and water supply and help control your utility costs. Stafford County’s Department of Utilities has put together some helpful tips.
How to Prevent Frozen Water Pipes:
- Locate and label your water main shut-off valve and ensure that everyone in your household knows where it is located. Knowing how to quickly access and turn off your water can limit damage should a pipe freeze or burst. While this can seem simple, shut-off valves can sometimes be challenging to find, especially during an emergency.
- Insulate your pipes and outside faucets (hose spigots) in unheated areas. If you have pipes in an unheated garage or crawl space, wrap the water pipes with insulation.
- Disconnect, drain and store garden hoses. A frozen garden hose connected to an interior pipe can increase pressure throughout the plumbing system, causing damage. It only takes one overnight freeze to burst the spigot or connecting pipe.
- During freezing temperatures:
- Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate the plumbing, especially if your sinks are on an exterior wall. If you have small children or pets, be sure to remove any harmful cleaners and household chemicals from your cabinets.
- Drip cold water from the farthest faucet from your main valve. Moving water keeps pipes from freezing.
- Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during the day and night. If you plan to be away during cold weather, leave the heat on your home no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
For more information on how to protect your pipes, visit the link below.
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up