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Preventing frozen and burst pipes
Before a cold snap
- Disconnect garden hoses and shut off and drain outdoor spigots, or fit insulated covers.
- Insulate pipes in crawl spaces, attics, garages, and exterior walls.
- Seal drafts near pipes.
- Know where your main shutoff is and make sure it turns.
During freezing weather
- Keep the heat on, even when away. Don't let the house get very cold.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls.
- Let at-risk faucets drip slightly.
If a pipe freezes
Keep the faucet open, and warm the pipe gently with a hair dryer or warm towels. Never use an open flame. If you can't reach or thaw it, call a plumber.
If a pipe bursts
Shut off the main immediately and see the emergency steps.