As the colder weather arrives in our area, it is a great time to prepare your home. By following the tips below you can protect your home from damages caused by leaking or busted pipes.
Disconnect water hoses and insulate exterior hose connections**. You can use pipe insulation or even old clothing, towels, blankets, etc. Wrap connec-tions and secure with tape. Wrap or insulate any exposed water lines in attic or any water lines that have previously frozen.
Drain sprinkler lines. Turn the main shut off valve to “off” position. On your backflow preventer, open Test port 1. Let the Water drain out, then close port. Open Test port 2. Let the Water drain then close port. If you need further assistance, you may need to contact an irrigation installation company.
Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply lines in the garage.
Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors** to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. (If you have small children, be sure to remove any harmful cleaners and household chemicals.)
Let the cold-water drip from a faucet**. Find the faucet farthest from the main water line and allow it to drip cold water at a very slow rate in order to keep water moving through the pipes. Running water through the pipe at a drip or even at a slow trickle can help prevent pipes from freezing.
Keep your homes at a constant temperature. Keep the thermostat set to the same tempera-ture during day and night. If you plan to be away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.
What can you do if your pipes freeze?
Make sure you and your family know how to shut off the water coming into your home. If the pipes burst stopping the water flow quickly will minimize the damage to your home. Call a plumber and contact Newport MUD’s operator, Professional Utility Services at (281) 324-9803, our employees are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week to assist you.
Never try to thaw a pipe with an open flame or torch.
Always be careful of the potential for electric shock in and around standing water.
