This winter, the Willamette Valley has experienced what seems to be more than its fair share of days and nights with temperatures below freezing. Since it looks like we're about to embark on another several cold days, this is a great time to make sure your pipes are protected from the freezing weather. Here are six things you can do now to help prevent frozen pipes:

Before It Gets Cold

Insulate: Cover any exposed pipes in your home's crawl space, attic and garage. If you have a well, be sure that the cover or pump house is sufficiently insulated.

Seal: Close any openings that could allow cold air to move around water pipes.

Disconnect: Remove all garden hoses from your outdoor hose bibs.

When the Temperature Drops

Trickle: Moving water is more difficult to freeze. Let a small amount of warm water trickle overnight from the faucets.

Heat: Set your thermostat to keep the house warmer on the coldest nights. You'll pay a little more in heating costs, but that will likely be a lot cheaper than fixing broken pipes and damage from water.

Circulate: Open cabinet doors below sinks—especially on outside walls—to let the heated air surround the exposed water pipes.

Got Trouble?

If you suspect that your water pipes have frozen, open the faucet and call us as soon as possible. Do not attempt to thaw pipes with a torch or open flame.

If a frozen water pipe bursts, shut off the water at the main supply valve, then call us as soon as possible.