Rely On The Rileys

1. Know where the water shutoff valve is located and how to use it. Knowing how to shut off the water supply can prevent severe flooding and damage that can occur in the event of a frozen pipe burst.
2. Protect all outside exposed water lines, including water faucet hose bibs. Disconnect garden hoses, pool hoses and drain outdoor pipes to prevent damage during the winter. Cover the hose bib with an insulated faucet cover.
3. Trickle your interior hot/cold faucets located in your kitchen and on Exterior Walls. This helps prevent freezing as moving water does not freeze. During a harsh freeze, a steady stream of hot/cold water on all faucets throughout your home can be your best line of defense.
4. Keep your house temperature above 65 degrees. Circulating warm air helps keep pipes from freezing. Open cabinet doors located on Exterior Walls.
5. Watch your water pressure. A drop in water pressure this time of year is the first sign of a frozen pipe. If you are experiencing a drop in water pressure, open the line by running the faucet on a continuous drip. If your water does freeze, there is nothing you can do except wait for the water to thaw out.
6. Winterize your irrigation system