Preventing and Thawing Frozen Pipes

Prevention, Action, Thawing As the harsh New York winter continues to make its way in, it becomes increasingly more important for homeowners to be aware of ways they can assist in preventing and thawing frozen pipes. Since water expands as it freezes, the result is often frozen pipes, which burst and cause a wide range of problems for homeowners. To Prevent Frozen Pipes:

• If you have a pool, make sure to drain the water supplies of both your pool and sprinklers. Do not add antifreeze unless instructed to do so.
• All hoses should be placed inside after drained before you close the inside valves that supply the outdoor hose bibs with water.
• It may be wise for you to invest in insulated material for your water pipes. These act as sleeves for the pipe and help ensure that exposed water pipes do not freeze.  

Preventative Action:

• If you have water supply lines in your garage, make sure to keep the garage doors closed when it is cold outside.
• To prevent pipes from freezing when temperatures are at an extreme low, simply run a drip at a trickle. This little amount of water will act as a safeguard against freezing pipes.
• If you will be traveling, make sure to set your thermostat at 55 degrees at the least.

To Thaw Frozen Pipes:

• If only a trickle of water is released when you turn on a faucet, you likely have a frozen pipe on your hands. As you treat the frozen pipe, make sure to keep the faucet on so that water can run through and melt the ice inside the pipe.
• To apply heat, use an electric hair dryer or an electric heating pad. Never use any open flame device to thaw your frozen pipes.
• If you are unable to locate the frozen pipe or cannot safely access the pipe, call a professional to do the job.

Serving Hudson, Chatham, and all of New York,  contact  Lofgren Agency for all of your  homeowners ' insurance  needs. We will go above and beyond to provide you with the security you deserve in each season of the year.