CONNECTICUT (WTNH) — Norwich Public Utilities and the American Red Cross have some tips on ways to protect your home from frozen pipes.
Water expands as it freezes, which can cause pipes to break. Pipes that are more prone to freezing include ones that are exposed to severe cold and pipes in unheated interiors, according to the American Red Cross .
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Tips from Norwich Public Utilities include:
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Open your cabinets and allow warm air to circulate
- Be sure to seal any gaps around pipes
- let water drip during the extreme cold
The American Red Cross has some tips on how to thaw frozen pipes:
- If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, that may be a frozen pipe so keep the faucet open. The water running through the pipe will help it melt.
- You can apply heat to the frozen area with an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe. You can also use an electric hair dryer or an electric space heater away from flammable material. You can also wrap a towel soaked in warm water.
- Be sure to apply heat until the full water pressure is restored.
Be sure to check all faucets in the home to find any additional frozen pipes.
Call a plumber if you cannot thaw your pipe…