Don't Forget To Do This Before The Temperatures Fall!

With winter officially only about a week away as of this writing, we're going to be getting a harsh welcome to the season over the next few days as temperatures are expected to dip well below freezing.

And when that happens, there's one thing that nobody wants to come home to - burst pipes.

Here are some things that you can do to avoid a frozen pipe disaster:

1
Shut Off Outdoor Faucets
A lot of homes that have outdoor faucets have shut off valves inside.
If you've never used the shut off valve before (or don't even know where it is), consider yourself lucky!
This is one lesson that you don't want to learn the hard way. Find out where that valve is and shut it off before the temperatures dip below freezing.
2
Cover Exposed Pipes
A lot of older homes have pipes in the basement, attic, and even outside, that are completely exposed. Just like a person wrapping up in a blanket to stay warm on the couch, pipes need a Snuggie too.
You can get foam insulation that will simply slip right over the pipes, at any home improvement store.
3
Drip Faucets
If you have particular faucets that you know are susceptible to freezing, turn them on to a slow drip.
Even if the pipe freezes, the fact that you're allowing air and water to move through the pipe should help stop that frozen pipe from becoming a burst pipe!
4
If The Pipes Freeze, Act Immediately!
If you have a pipe that ends up freezing, don't delay!
It could be as simple as employing a hair dryer (and some patience), or you may need to get more elaborate with heating wires and coils that are specifically designed to avoid and remedy frozen pipes.
But one thing that you definitely don't want to do, is wait!
5
Don't Forget The Shore Houses
With a lot of part time homes in Ocean County, you definitely don't want to forget about the beach house!
A quick trip out to the closed for the season shore house to winterize the pipes could end up preventing a pretty unpleasant surprise when you go to open the house next season!