How To Prevent Frozen and Burst Pipes This Winter

Cold-climate homeowners face frozen pipes every winter. These simple steps can save you from a costly emergency.

In cold climates, frozen pipes are a leading cause of winter water damage. When water freezes it expands, and the pressure can split a pipe — which then floods the home when it thaws.

Before winter, disconnect and drain garden hoses, and insulate exposed pipes in unheated spaces like crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls. On the coldest nights, open cabinet doors under sinks and let a faucet drip slightly.

Know where your main shutoff is before you need it. If a pipe does freeze, shutting off the water fast limits the damage when it thaws.

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