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When water freezes, the density of the water decreases, causing the water to expand. This is why, when water freezes in pipes, it could only mean one thing- trouble. The frozen water in the pipes can cause the pipes to burst, and allows the unfrozen water to get away which can then result in severe property damage. The most common places for pipes to freeze are in attics, crawl spaces and outside walls since there is little to no insulation making it very vulnerable especially if there are cracks. Some tips:

• Every member in your household should know where your main water shut-off valve is located in case of emergency. Do an annual check of the shut-off valves to make sure that it is working as it should be.
   
• Check to make sure that the water to your outdoor faucets is shut off inside your house via a turnoff valve, and that all the lines are drained before the temperature drops anywhere close to freezing point.
   
• In the event that a pipe does freezes or burst, shut the water off at once. Never attempt to thaw frozen pipes unless the water is shut off. Very often, the freezing of the pipes causes minor cracks in pipes or joins that can leak once thawed.
   
• To thaw the pipes apply heat using a blow-dryer, heater or hot water. Never use propane or kerosene heaters or blow torches because of fire hazards. Once the water has thawed, check the pipes for cracks and leaks.
   
• To prevent pipes from freezing, wrap them with insulation or layers of fabric or newspaper.
   
• Whether you leave your house for more than a day or if you have experienced frozen pipes in the past, leave the faucet running just enough so it can trickle through the pipes. The moving water will keep the water in the pipes from freezing and from bursting. The cost of leaving the water on a trickle is nothing compared to the cost and damage of a burst pipe.
   
• Open all the cabinet doors under the kitchen and bathroom sinks in order to allow some room temperature air to flow around the pipes which can keep the pipes from freezing.
   

Taking action and making sure that your home is insulated properly is very well worth it. It can save you all the time and trouble that a burst water pipe will cause.

Filed under: How-To • General

Tags: water pipes