SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — As a cold snap moves through the region by Christmas weekend, temperatures will drop to the 20s overnight, meaning it’s time to locate your house’s main water valve — and the one on your water heater — and consider the best ways to protect the pipes.
To avoid freezing, here are a few tips:
- Keep thermostat at the same temperature during daylight and nighttime, no lower than 55 degrees
- Drain and disconnect garden hoses
- Shut off and drain the water system
- Install covers on outside faucets
- If water supply lines are located in the garage, keep doors shut
- Open all cabinets and doors and close all windows to allow circulation of warm air to reach pipes
- Cover or close open-air vents
- Wrap pipes in pipe insulation or heating tape
- Let cold water trickle from faucet to keep water flowing
If pipes do freeze, there are steps to assist in thawing — such as using a hair dryer or wrapping hot wet towels around the pipes. If thawing a pipe, ensure the faucet nearest to it is turned on to drip the water as it melts.
Extreme heat, such as torches, should not be utilized to thaw pipes; it will melt too quickly and can cause the pipes to burst, which poses a safety issue.
If a break is found in a hot water pipe, make sure the water heater valve is closed.
Have plumber and utility company numbers handy in the event of pipe break.
Have comments or tips? Email info@portcitydaily.com
Want to read more from PCD? Subscribe now and then sign up for our morning newsletter, Wilmington Wire, and get the headlines delivered to your inbox every morning.
