Learn how you can stop your pipes from freezing over this winter.

When temperatures drop, the chances of your pipes freezing and bursting increase exponentially.  Luckily, there are several things you can do to reduce your chances of frozen pipes in your home.  Here are some of the precautions you should take this winter.

1) Keep Your Heat On

Even if you are leaving your home, it’s important that you leave your heat on.  If you shut your heat completely off, your pipes will likely freeze and burst, causing significant damage to your property.  Instead, set your thermostat to about 50° F to avoid the water in your pipes from freezing over.

2) Let Your Faucets Run

When pipes freeze, it is actually the built-up pressure behind the blockage that causes your pipes to burst.  If you fear that your pipes might freeze, leaving your faucets to drip will relieve the pressure on your water system.  Allowing your faucet to run will prevent this pressure and prevent your pipes from actually bursting.

3) Leave Cabinet Doors Open

Your pipes often run through your home’s cabinets.  That’s why it’s a good idea to leave these cabinet doors open when temperatures drop.  By opening up your cabinet doors, you can ensure that the heat from the rest of your home reaches your pipes as well.  This will ensure that they do not get cold enough to freeze.

These are just a few of the precautions you can take to prevent your pipes from freezing this winter.  Want another way to protect your home this season?  Make sure you have the right home insurance coverage to address your needs.  To find the right policy for you, contact the experts at Steve Wilk Insurance Agency. Located in Illinois, check out our new office at 310 S Main Street, Suite C, Lombard, IL 60148.