East Arizona News

Winter temperatures in the desert can drop below freezing, posing a risk to the pipes in your home. To avoid costly repairs and damage to your property, it is important to take precautions and protect your pipes during the cold weather.

One of the key steps in preventing frozen pipes is to wrap any exposed pipes outside or in unheated areas of your home with insulation. This can be done using materials such as towels, blankets, or small rugs. By providing an extra layer of insulation, you can help to keep the pipes from freezing.

Another important measure is to remove garden hoses from outside faucets. When a hose is left attached to a faucet during freezing temperatures, it can cause the water inside the pipes to freeze and expand, leading to potential damage. By disconnecting and storing the hoses, you can prevent this from happening.

Covering vents around the foundation of your home is another useful tip. These vents can allow cold air to enter the crawl space or basement, increasing the risk of freezing pipes. By covering them with insulation or other suitable materials, you can help to keep the area warmer and reduce the chances of pipes freezing.

If you have a pool, setting your timer for the pump to run between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. can also be beneficial. Running water won't freeze as easily, so by circulating the water during the coldest hours, you can prevent it from freezing in the pipes.

Turning off drip irrigation and sprinkler systems is another important step. These systems can introduce water into the pipes, which can freeze and cause damage. By shutting them off during freezing temperatures, you can avoid this risk.

Knowing the location of your property owner's cut-off valve is crucial in case of a pipe freeze or burst. The valve is usually found adjacent to the water meter box. Being aware of its location and knowing how to use it can help you quickly shut off the water supply and minimize any potential damage.

In the event that your pipes do freeze, it is important to handle the situation carefully. If you turn on your outside hose faucet and no water comes out, it is likely that your pipes have frozen. Checking with a neighbor to see if they have water coming out of their faucet can help confirm this.

The time it takes for frozen pipes to thaw can vary depending on their location. If the pipes are in an area that receives some sunshine, they may thaw by mid-morning. However, if they are in a shaded area, it is likely that they will not thaw until after midday.

If you detect that your water pipes have frozen and burst, it is crucial to turn off the water at the main shut-off valve and contact a licensed plumbing professional. Attempting to thaw a pipe with a torch or open flame is highly dangerous and can lead to water damage or even a house fire.

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to protecting your home's pipes during freezing temperatures. By taking these simple steps and being prepared, you can avoid the risk of frozen and burst pipes, saving yourself from costly repairs and potential water damage.

To report a water emergency, you can contact Scottsdale Water customer service 24 hours a day at 480-312-5650. Their team is available to assist you in case of any pipe-related issues during freezing temperatures.