When the weather turns real cold, when temperatures dip below freezing, there is a danger that your water pipes could freeze and even burst. Winter is hard for many, but it gets to crisis stage if you are without water because your pipes are frozen.
While it is Warm
Experts say the best way to protect your home or business from winter is to do some preventative maintenance while it is still warm. Walk around your house or business and look for any openings where cold air could get in or near your pipes. Check out your pipes and make sure they are at least somewhat insulated against the cold. It is a good idea too, to drain hoses and store them. You might also consider shutting off valves inside that got to outdoor faucets you will not be using in cold weather.
Check attics and crawl spaces for areas that could use some insulation, and put some in if there is room, especially around pipes. Another really good idea is to get in touch with plumbers and find out who will be available in an emergency situation if you do happen to have frozen pipes. After you have done all you can, keep those numbers handy just in case. Make sure you know where all your shutoff valves are just in case there is a leak and you need it shut off quick.
Freezing Pipes
Pipes can freeze when temperatures dip below freezing, but it really has to get somewhat colder than that for there to be danger. You can do things to warm up an area just a little. It does not have to be real warm, just enough to prevent freezing. You can use a space heater near pipes to warm up an area a little, but be very careful that the wires are in good shape and there is nothing around that could catch on fire.
Another tip is to leave cabinet doors open to let a little heat in under the sink and around the pipes. Also it may be a good idea to turn the thermostat up which will send some heat to areas under your house. Another time honored method of preventing pipes from freezing is to leave the water running just a little. You may spend a little more with the dripping water on your water bill, but if it is extremely cold you might save a lot more on repairs.
Frozen Pipes
Even with your best laid plans, pipes can still become frozen. If this happens, do not try something like a blow torch or a fire near the pipes. This could cause a fire in the house. You can use something like a hair dryer on a pipe, which will work if it is not frozen solid. Another option is to wrap pipes in warm blankets. Also try turning the water on at the lowest point in your home. This can help gravity get things moving along, and move the ice and help it thaw out.