How to Prevent Water Pipes from Freezing

By Staff Reporter
Posted on 02/11/16 | News Source: Pikesville Patch

Temperatures are expected to drop well below zero over the next few days.

Temperatures are expected to drop well below zero over the next few days.

The County’s Bureau of Utilities is recommending residents take the following steps to prevent water pipes, particularly those located on or next to an outside wall and in a garage or any other unheated building, from freezing and potentially bursting:

• Wrap or insulate exposed pipes susceptible to low temperatures.
• Utilize other devices, such as heat tape, to help keep pipes from freezing.
• Leave hot and cold water dripping on nights when temperatures dip below 15°F.
• Some pipes, such as those located in cabinets, may be situated against an outside wall, while they may be insulated, residents should leave cabinet doors open to allow heat in the room to keep pipes warm and prevent freezing.
• Turn off and drain outside hose bibs.
• Know where the main water cutoff valve is and how it works.
• Seal air leaks that allow icy blasts to reach pipes.
• For homes with crawl spaces, close outside air vents located in the foundation wall during extremely cold temperatures to keep exposed plumbing from freezing.
• If you have a programmable thermostat, consider leaving it at a constant temperature, never below 45°F.If your pipes do freeze, the Bureau recommends opening the cold water faucet nearest the frozen pipe to relieve pressure. Then, use a gentle heat source, such as a light bulb or hair dryer, to thaw the pipe. Don’t use an open flame. If you lose water or experience sewage back-up in your home, call the County first to determine if there is a break in the water main or a blockage in the sewer main beyond your property. During regular business hours, call the Bureau at 410-313-4900; after hours and on the weekends, call Central Dispatch at 410-313-2929.