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Prevent
Frozen Pipes
Burst pipes are bad news for your home and everything it contains.
Both metal and plastic water pipes can burst if the water within
them freezes. Before the onset of cold weather, the industry
professionals at Brenneco recommend the following:
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Drain water from swimming pool and water
sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer's or installer's
directions.
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Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors.
Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the
outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside
valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand
without causing the pipe to break.
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Determine where water supply lines are located -
especially in unheated areas. Basements, crawl spaces, attics,
garages, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets are likely
examples.
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Insulate both hot and cold water supply lines in
unheated areas. A hot water supply line can freeze just as a
cold water supply line can freeze if the water is not running
through the pipe and the water temperature in the pipe is cold.
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If the side of your water heater feels warm near
the top, install an insulation blanket. Make sure to use the
appropriate type blanket for your water heater, whether it's
electric, gas or oil. Follow the manufacturer's installation
instructions carefully.
Take Preventive
Action
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If there are water supply lines in the garage,
keep the garage door closed.
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Allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing
by opening kitchen and bathroom cabinets.
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When the weather is very cold outside, let cold
water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes.
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If you will be going away during cold weather,
leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower
than 55°F.
To Thaw Frozen
Pipes
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a
frozen pipe. Locate the suspected frozen area of the water pipe.
Likely places include pipes running against exterior walls or where
your water service enters your home through the foundation.
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Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen
pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to
flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe
will help melt more ice in the pipe.
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Apply heat to the section of pipe using an
electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, and electric hair
dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable
materials), or wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water.
Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal
stove, or other open flame device.
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Apply heat until full water pressure is restored.
If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area
is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a
licensed plumber.
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Check all other faucets in your home to find out
if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others
may freeze, too.
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