PREPARE YOUR PIPES FOR WINTER

Cold winter months can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Some insurance policies will not pay claims unless prior care was taken to prevent freezing. The Brunswick Fire Department says to avoid frozen pipes, flooding and costly repairs:

• Check and insulate pipes in unheated areas, basement, crawl space and exterior walls. These usually freeze first.
• Drain outside faucets which are susceptible. Cut off water inside that controls the faucet, then open the faucet handle and allow the remaining water to drain out.
• If you will be away from your house, leave your heating thermostat at a reasonable temperature and open faucets to let them drip slightly. This may prevent freezing.
• If you will be away for several months, shut off the water and drain the system. Call a plumber for proper procedures.
• If you have a loss of heat, check the pipes, open faucets and allow them to drip slightly. If pipes in freeze-prone areas have not been insulated, newspaper may be used for temporary insulation.
• Consult a professional for special low level heat for a pipe that keeps freezing. Do not rig your own system. It could create a fire hazard.
• Never attempt to thaw a pipe by using a hair dryer; you may start a fire.
• Locate your main shut-off valve for your water system before the weather turns frigid. If pipes burst, turn off the main valve to avoid further damage.

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