Why it’s a good idea to fill a tub with water during a storm and what to do when the pipes freeze

When temperatures drop below twenty degrees F, pipes can freeze, leaving households cut off from running water. As winter storm Elliot rips through the United States, bringing colder temperatures to more than 200 million people, authorities advise that those with bathtubs fill them up in case their pipes freeze. Storing this water can ensure families have access to water to bathe, clean, drink, and boil.

Temperatures have been falling rapidly, with some cities in Wyoming reporting a drop of over forty degrees in just a few minutes. In such extreme conditions, it is essential to keep an eye on your water pipes to avoid freezes that can burst and lead to costly repairs.

Which pipes are the most at risk of freezing?

Pipes exposed to the elements are the most likely to freeze, so those connected to pools and sprinkler systems are most at risk. Moving inside the house, pipes that run through areas where there may not be heat, like basements, attics, garages, attics, crawlspaces, or exterior walls, could also be affected.

How do I prevent pipes from freezing?

To avoid interior pipes from freezing, you can keep cabinets open to expose pipes that run through or behind them. This can even mean leaving shower doors open to allow heat to reach those plumbing systems more efficiently. Additionally, by keeping the taps on and water moving through the pipes, they are less likely to freeze, so it is advised to keep a low drip running in sinks or bathtubs.

While many who live in cooler climates have become accustomed to lowering their thermostat at night, it may be a better choice to keep the heat up to help lower the risk of pipes freezing overnight. This move may increase your energy bill but is likely cheaper than fixing whatever damage is incurred if the pipes freeze and burst, according to Al.com.

What should I do if my pipes freeze?

In cases where the tap was shut off, and water comes out slowly, leading you to suspect that the pipe may be frozen, it may be a good idea to turn the tap on, which may help to melt ice as the water moves through.

If you have access to the pipe, you can apply an electric heating pad or hot towel to melt the ice and try and get water flowing again. Plumbers even say that using a hair dryer to help thaw the ice may be able to get your water flowing once again. A space heater can also be used for this purpose too, but avoid using propane, blow torches, or any heating sources that may pose a fire risk.