SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — As temperatures drop below freezing and the region remains under an Extreme Cold Warning and Winter Weather Warning, how to protect the home’s pipes this weekend should be considered as snowfall approaches.
The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority has made suggestions for its customers to help prevent their private plumbing from freeze damage.
READ MORE: ‘Historic’ snow storm approaching tri-county this weekend
To help prevent pipes from bursting, drain water from outdoor plumbing and wrap pipes, or allow a trickle of water to run through the system. Also temporarily turn off and drain irrigation systems.
For indoor plumbing, a slight drip should run on faucets, and opening kitchen and bathroom cabinets will allow warmer air to circulate around pipes.
Freezing temperatures can also damage backflow preventers. Commercial businesses and homes with irrigation systems can protect the preventers with a fiberglass cover and close valves and drain water from the assembly. This will keep irrigation water from contaminating the public water supply.
If a pipe does freeze, it’s important to:
- Not apply excessive heat to frozen pipes
- Open cabinets and doors to allow warm air to circulate
- Use towels soaked in warm water to wrap around frozen pipes
- Use a hair dryer set on a low setting
- If using an electric heater or heat tape, devices at risk of coming into contact with water should be powered through a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
- If problems persist, contact a licensed plumber
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