View the story at http://www.wect.com/story/30994568/colder-temperatures-lead-to-risk-of-frozen-pipes
Colder temperatures lead to risk of frozen pipes
Posted: Jan 18, 2016 6:21 PM EST
Updated: Jan 18, 2016 8:37 PM EST
By: Amanda WestonCONNECT
Experts said leaving a slight drip can help prevent pipes from freezing. (Source: WECT)
Experts said leaving a slight drip can help prevent pipes from freezing. (Source: WECT)
WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) -
Experts warned homeowners about protecting water pipes during freezing temperatures Monday.
Mike McGill, Cape Fear Public Utility Authority spokesperson, said it’s important for people to evaluate their home before temperatures drop.
“Know where the shutoff is, know where the pipes are that are exposed to the cold air, and take some sort of action to make sure that some warmth or some insulation is on those pipes,” McGill said. “If you can’t do that in time, then have that low trickle of water running because running water is harder to freeze obviously. Those steps together can help you prevent your pipes from freezing in your home.”
Nathan Moore, J.S. Mintz Plumbing supervisor, said homeowners should also unhook hoses from outside faucets.
Moore said he sees a spike in business during winter.
“When it drops below freezing, we’re usually full the next day with dealing with frozen water lines and frozen pipes,” Moore said. “They’ll wake up and they don’t have any water.”
McGill said if people have frozen pipes, they should shut off the house’s water and try to get heat on the pipes.
He said it doesn't hurt to get a professional's opinion as well.
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