LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Central Arkansas Water offers tips to protect pipes during freezing weather.
The Arkansas Storm Team is forecasting the Natural State will be hit with exceptionally cold weather next week, with highs in the 30s and lows in the 20s.
Experts offer car-prep tips for when the winter weather hits Arkansas
The six tips are:
- Drip faucets: During extremely cold nights, allow hot and cold faucets to drip slightly to relieve pressure in the pipes and reduce the risk of freezing. This is particularly important for pipes located along exterior walls and open cabinet doors beneath the sinks to allow extra heat to reach the pipes.
- Keep the heat on: Ensure that your home or business is adequately heated, especially in areas with water supply lines, such as the kitchen and bathrooms. Maintain a consistent temperature, even during nighttime hours.
- Insulate pipes: Properly insulate exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas such as basements, attics and crawl spaces, using pipe insulation or heating tape.
- Seal cracks and openings: Identify and seal any gaps or cracks in walls and foundations that allow cold air to reach pipes. Weatherstripping and insulation can minimize drafts. Also, remember to close or cover your crawlspace vents.
- Disconnect outdoor hoses: Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and shut off the outdoor water supply if possible. This prevents water from freezing in the hoses and can help protect the connected indoor pipes. Also, covering your outdoor faucets with foam covers can add another layer of protection.
- Know the main shut-off valve location: Familiarize yourself with the location of the main water shut-off valve in case of an emergency. Turning off the water supply quickly can help minimize damage in the event of a burst pipe. Water can also be shut off at your water meter in an emergency.