Here are some tips to prevent frozen pipes during extreme cold temperatures:
- Before cold temps hit, insulate pipes. Install pipe sleeves or heat tape on exposed water pipes.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks. Opening cabinet doors allows warm air to circulate around the pipes. Be sure to move cleaners and harmful chemicals out of the reach of children or pets.
- Keep the thermostat on 60 degrees or above. When you leave for work or if you'll be away from home during extreme cold weather, set the thermostat no lower than 60 degrees.
- Let a faucet trickle. When the temperature dips below zero, let at least 1 faucet in your home trickle water. Running water through the pipes helps prevent freezing.
Know where your home's water shut-off valve is located. Should a pipe burst, knowing where to shut off the water to your home can prevent you from having a big and expensive mess on your hands.