Preparing for the Freezing Temperatures Ahead

Dear RCH Members,

As we brace for a period of unusually cold temperatures forecasted to linger in the low double digits beginning on Friday, it is crucial for each of us to take proactive steps to safeguard your home’s water lines. Freezing temperatures pose a significant risk to exposed pipes and faucets. Even a small crack — as little as one-eighth of an inch — can result in leaks of up to 250 gallons of water per day, leading to inconvenient, costly, and potentially severe damage.

To help you navigate this cold snap with minimal disruption, we have compiled a list of best practices for protecting your pipes:

Keep Faucets Dripping:
Allow a small, steady drip from your faucets. Continuous water flow can help prevent pipes from freezing, especially those located on exterior walls.

Open Cabinet Doors:
Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around pipes. This is especially important in kitchens and bathrooms, where pipes are often concealed and more vulnerable.

Insulate Exposed Pipes:
Insulate exposed pipes, particularly in unheated areas such as attics, crawl spaces, garages, and along exterior walls. Wrapping pipes with foam insulation can significantly reduce the risk of freezing. Check regularly to ensure insulation remains properly in place.

Seal Cracks and Openings:
Inspect areas where pipes pass through walls or floors and seal any gaps that allow cold air to enter. Use caulk or insulation to block drafts effectively.

Maintain Consistent Thermostat Settings:
Keep your home’s temperature consistent during the day and night. Sudden drops in temperature, especially overnight, increase the risk of frozen and burst pipes.

Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses:
Remove and drain outdoor hoses, then store them indoors. Shut off indoor valves supplying outdoor hose bibs and open the exterior faucets to allow any remaining water to drain.

Cover Hose Bibs:
Install hose bib covers for added protection. If covers are unavailable, wrap outdoor faucets with a towel and secure it with duct tape or zip ties as a temporary measure.

Know Your Water Shut-Off Location:
Locate and familiarize yourself with your main water shut-off valve. If a pipe freezes or bursts, shutting off the water quickly can greatly reduce damage.

We strongly encourage all members to take these simple yet effective preventive steps to avoid the disruptions and expenses associated with frozen and burst pipes.

Stay warm,

Robin Mayall
CEO, RCH