How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Connecticut

Frozen pipes cause thousands of dollars in damage every winter. Connecticut temperatures drop low enough to freeze exposed pipes. Take these steps to protect your home.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes in unheated areas need insulation. Focus on basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages. Foam pipe insulation is cheap and easy to install. Pay special attention to pipes on exterior walls.

Seal Gaps and Cracks

Cold air enters through small openings. Seal cracks around pipes where they enter walls. Use caulk or spray foam. This keeps cold air away from pipes and saves on heating bills.

Let Faucets Drip

When temperatures drop below freezing, let faucets drip slightly. Moving water is harder to freeze. This is especially important for faucets on exterior walls. A small water bill beats pipe repair costs.

Keep Thermostat Consistent

Maintain the same temperature day and night. Lowering heat at night saves money but risks frozen pipes. If you travel, never set the thermostat below 55 degrees. Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to let warm air reach pipes.

Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Remove garden hoses before winter. Drain outdoor faucets. If you have shut-off valves for outdoor faucets, close them and drain the lines. Water left in outdoor faucets can freeze and damage indoor pipes.

Know Where Your Main Shut-Off Is

If a pipe does freeze and burst, you need to shut off water fast. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the main shut-off valve is located. Test it before winter to ensure it works.