Protecting pipes during extreme cold weather

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — With below-freezing temperatures expected in the coming days, Kentucky American Water is reminding customers to take steps now to protect their pipes and avoid costly repairs.

According to a news release from the company, frozen pipes can lead to major damage and unexpected expenses, but there are simple steps homeowners can take to reduce the risk.

Kentucky American Water recommends customers first know how to shut off water to their home. The main shut-off valve is often located where the water line enters the house, such as a basement, crawl space, or utility closet. Officials suggest clearly labeling the valve so it can be found quickly in an emergency.

Other tips include disconnecting hoses from outdoor spigots and checking for pipes in areas more vulnerable to freezing, such as garages, crawl spaces, basements, unheated rooms, and exterior walls. Fixing drafts around windows and doors and insulating exposed pipes can also help protect them from cold air.

When temperatures remain below freezing, the utility suggests opening cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around pipes and letting a small trickle of water run. Kentucky American Water says the cost of running a small amount of water is often much less than repairing a burst pipe.

If pipes do freeze, customers are advised to shut off the water immediately before attempting to thaw them. The release says frozen pipes can be safely thawed by warming the surrounding air with a hair dryer, space heater, or hot water. Officials caution against using open flames or unattended heaters.

Once pipes are thawed, customers should slowly turn the water back on and check for cracks or leaks that may have occurred during freezing.

For those traveling or away from home, Kentucky American Water recommends setting thermostats no lower than 55 degrees and having someone periodically check the property to ensure heat is working and pipes have not frozen.