When temperatures plummet, the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting increases exponentially. In fact,
burst pipes are one of the most common causes of property damage during frigid weather and can easily cost
you thousands in water damage. Prepare for the winter weather by learning how to prevent water pipes from
freezing and the costly damage that comes with it.

What Pipes Are Most At Risk?
Any plumbing on the exterior of the home (like outdoor hose bibs and swimming pool supply lines) is more
prone to freezing, but even pipes running through cabinets or exposed in unheated interior spaces such as
basements, attics, and garages can freeze.

How To Protect Vulnerable Pipes
• Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply lines in the garage
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing (Make
sure to move any harmful cleaners and chemicals out of the reach of children)
• Let cold water drip from a faucet – even a trickle of running water can help pipes from freezing
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature day and night
• For the long term, add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces to maintain higher
temperatures

Heading South for the Winter?
For folks leaving their homes for extended periods of time, there are some preventative measures that
need to be taken to adequately protect your home from the cold:
− Make sure the furnace is set no lower than 55 degrees
− Shut off the main water supply and drain the system by opening all faucets and flushing all
toilets

If you do find yourself with frozen pipes, know when to call a professional.

Beat the freeze this winter and leave your frozen pipes in the hands of a professional. For your convenience,
the professionals at Greenwood Plumbing and Heating are here for you 24/7! Call 401-738-9245 or book an
appointment online: https://greenwoodplumbingandheating.com/