1. Know How To Shutoff Your Water
It is critical to know how to quickly shut-off the water to your home in-case there is a burst pipe or leak. Once you've shut-off your main water supply, call a plumber to come assess your pipes and home before turning the water back on.
2. Disconnect Outside Hoses
Similar to the pipes inside your home, water that is sitting inside a hose can freeze and expand, causing your hose to burst. I can also cause permanent damage to your hose bibs.
3. Cover Hose Bibs
Hose bibs and outdoor faucets can easily become damaged and break during a freeze. Covering them with a towel, t-shirts, or plastic bags will help prevent water damage to the exterior of your home.
4. Keep Thermostat Temp Consistent
Keeping your thermostat at one consistent temperature means it doesn't have to work as hard to heat or cool your home. This will save energy and money.
5. Open Cabinet Doors
Opening the cabinet doors under your sinks allows for warm air from the rest of the home to circulate around your pipes. This will help prevent them freezing and bursting.
6. Keep Water Flowing Through Your Pipes
Running water freezes slower than standing water. By letting your faucets drip, you'll let the water move just enough to not easily freeze.
7. Insulate Pipes
In cold temperatures, exposed pipes in non-heated areas are most vulnerable for freezing. These include pipes in garages and the exterior of the home. Insulating these with foam or duct tape will help protect them from the cold.
8. Seal Drafts Around Windows & Doors
This will keep cold air out of your house and away from your pipes.
