FROZEN PIPES \ Prevention tips

Here’s what you can do to keep your water pipes from freezing during the winter.

Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where pipes are located. Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents and pipes. Use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out and the heat in.

If you suspect your pipes are freezing, wrap towels that have been soaked in hot water around cold pipe sections. Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes, and turn on faucets just enough to let them drip slowly. Keep the water moving to prevent freezing.

Show everyone in the house where the water shut-off valve is. If you turn your faucet on and no water comes out, leave them on and immediately call a plumber. If you’ve already discovered that your pipes have burst, keep the faucets on, but turn off the water at the main shut-off valve and call a plumber.

Never try to thaw a pipe with a blowtorch or other open flame, and do not use electrical appliances in areas of standing water.

If you’re going away for the holidays — or the entire winter — make sure you leave your heat on, set no lower than 55 degrees, or your pipes are in danger of freezing or bursting.

Source: Courtesy of Betsy Whitmore of Angie’s List