Ask Bob Plumbing How do I prevent pipes from freezing?
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How do I prevent pipes from freezing?

Insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls. Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold to keep water moving. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to reach pipes. Keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature, at least 55 degrees, day and night. Seal gaps and cracks where cold air reaches pipes. Disconnect outdoor hoses and shut off outdoor spigots.

Why It Matters

Frozen pipes expand and can burst, causing catastrophic flooding and expensive water damage repairs. Prevention is simple and much cheaper than cleanup.

Related Questions

How do I shut off my main water valve? How do I unclog a toilet or drain? Why is my water pressure low? How do I know if I have a water leak? Should I repair or replace my water heater?

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