Freezing Temps! Drip Your Faucets

It's freezing outside! Protect your pipes when temperatures drop below freezing. The weather channel is calling for freezing temperatures including the possiblity for snow this weekend. Even in the south we have some winter nights that drop below freezing. You'll find below a couple things you can do to protect your pipes during these cold nights. -Let water drip overnight on all faucets. Just a trickle of water might be all it takes to keep your pipes from freezing -Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior wall

-Insulate outdoor faucets and remove the hose. You do not need drip outdoor faucets. -If you are out of town. Set the thermostat in your house no lower than 55 degrees. Ask a friend, neighbor or even JPMac Properties to check your house to make sure it's warm enough to prevent freezing, or… Shut off and DRAIN the water system. Be aware if you have a fire protection sprinkler system in your house, it will be deactivated when you shut off the water. Don't take chances! If you turn on your faucets and nothing comes out, call us immediately! We will need to get a plumber to your house. This can be a very expensive repair if the pipe burst. If you detect that your water pipes have frozen and burst, turn off the water at the main shut-off valve in the house. Make sure everyone in your family knows where the water shut-off valve is and how to open and close it. Your shut off valve is usually located directly opposite the water meter where the service line enters your house. Normally the shut off valve is near the perimeter of your house, often close to a water faucet or spigot. Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame. Water damage is comparable to burning down your house. You may be able to thaw a frozen pipe with the warm air from a hair dryer. Start by warming the pipe as close to the faucet as possible, working toward the coldest section of pipe. Never use electrical appliances in areas of standing water because you could be electrocuted. I hope everyone is having an amazing week, enjoying this weather as much as possible and staying safe. Please don't forget to bring your pets inside. Don't hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.