Did you know that letting your most weather-susceptible faucets drip during periods of extreme cold can keep your water pipes from freezing? Don’t let cold weather ice your pipes this winter!

Because liquid expands as it freezes, pipes full of water are vulnerable, and those outdoors or running against exterior walls are especially susceptible. With a few preventive steps, you can save the expense and bother of burst pipes and water damage:

• Insulate around pipes exposed to cold air by wrapping them with professionally approved heat tapes or other UL- listed insulation products.
• Remove, drain and store outdoor hoses, and close inside valves that supply outdoor lines. Leave the outside valve open during winter months so that remaining water can expand without breaking.
• Know the location of your shut-off valve for the water supply and consider shutting it down if you’re going to be away from your home or your business for an extended period of time.
• If your garage has water supply lines, keep garage doors closed. Even a few degrees of warmth can make a difference.
• When temperatures are very low, opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors gives indoor plumbing access to warmer air. Just be sure to remove any chemicals or cleaners you may store in those areas; these substances may be hazardous to children or pets.
• If you travel for the holidays, keep your thermostat at 55 degrees F to help keep your pipes warm enough to prevent freezing.
• You can find additional information about keeping your home safe from frozen pipes and what to do in an emergency through the American Red Cross. These simple tips will help keep your pipes secure this winter season and allow you to focus your attention on staying warm!

This loss control information is advisory only. The authors assume no responsibility for management or control of loss control activities. Not all exposures are identified in this article. Contact Anders, Ireland & Marshall for coverage advice and policy service.