Marshik Insurance Agency, Inc.

Preventing Frozen Water Pipes:

Colder weather increases the chance that your water pipes might freeze, especially if you have the gas service disconnected at a vacation home over the winter.

Here are some tips to help you avoid or deal with the problem:

For normal precautions:

• Insulate exposed pipes with heat tape, newspapers or rags.

• Place a 60-watt light bulb close to the water meter to keep it from freezing.

• If pipes are close to an exposed outside wall, open the cabinet door to let room heat in.

• Use a hair dryer or turn up the heat in your home to 75 degrees to thaw a pipe;  do not use a torch.

• If a pipe bursts, shut off the main valve, usually located near the meter.

• Be aware that leaks sometimes don’t show up until a pipe thaws, when they can cause extensive damage to plaster walls.

If you’ll be away for the winter:

• Drain pipes completely.

• Pour a cup of antifreeze into the draintraps, toilet bowls and tanks.

• Make sure the main shut-off valve is turned off.

• Open all faucets.

• Drain the hot water tank.

Contact the Marshik Insurance Agency with your questions on how your policy coverage’s apply.  320-632-2328 – We will do a FREE coverage analysis.

Source:  State Auto Insurance Companies Facts and Features Autumn 2011 Newsletter