Protect Your Pipes

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Protect your pipes from freezing weather by following the steps below:

Drain and store outdoor hoses.
Insulate outdoor and exposed pipes.
Cover outdoor faucets.
Keep garage doors closed.
Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
Drip faucets connected to exposed pipes (use cold water so you don't drain your water heater).
Keep your thermostat at the same temperature day and night.
If you will be away from your home during the freezing weather, keep your heater on at at least 55° F.

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you likely have a frozen pipe. Safely thaw frozen pipes using the steps below:

Keep your faucet on so the water has somewhere to go after you melt the ice.
Gently heat the frozen section of the pipe using one of the following:
- An electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe.
- A hair dryer.
- A portable space heater (kept away from flammable items).
Towels soaked in hot water wrapped around the pipe.
NEVER try to thaw a frozen pipe using an open-flame device, such as a blowtorch. This can damage your pipes or cause a fire.
Apply heat until the water pressure is fully restored. Repeat the process as needed for any other frozen pipes.

If you are unable to thaw a frozen pipe, or if you have a burst pipe, call a licensed plumber.