Preventing Freezing Water Pipes
The old saying, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" is especially true when it comes to cold temperatures, water, and the pipes that transport it. The following tips reduce the chance of freezing and help keep water running in your pipes all winter long.
A faucet left dripping at the fixture farthest from the main water inlet allows just enough warm water movement within the pipes to reduce the chance of a freeze. Even though it is cold, during the winter, the water coming in from deep below ground is usually warmer than the water above ground. This warmer cold water moving in the pipes makes it much more difficult for the cold to freeze things up.
Insulating pipes that are above ground (those that are most susceptible to freezing) prevents them from freezing during most moderate-to-medium chills -- even when faucets are off. This includes pipes in the subarea or basement and especially any that might be in the attic.
If your kitchen or bathroom sink faucets are prone to freezing, leave the cabinet doors open at night. This allows warm air to circulate in the cabinet and warm the cold pipes.
