STAR PRESS REPORT

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MUNCIE — Colder temperatures bring the potential of freezing pipes, and with the economy the way it is, homeowners can’t afford to let frozen pipes be a drain on their pocketbook or their plumbing.

“Taking some simple precautions before the wintry weather hits can save homeowners the expense as well as the time of repairing burst pipes,” said Justin Ullom of the Mr. Rooter of Central Indiana franchise. “The best way to prevent frozen pipes is to winterize your plumbing system.”

By following these steps homeowners can save the money, mess and stress that frozen pipes cause:

Insulate your pipes
* Cover faucets and exposed pipes with insulation or wrap thick towels around them.
* Secure all basement doors, windows and crawl space openings (crawl spaces must be ventilated or it will cause mold)

Keep faucets running
* A small trickle of water or a constant drip will help prevent pipes from freezing.
Open cabinet doors
* This allows heat to circulate under the sink to keep interior pipes warm.
Drain outside water lines
* Remove garden hoses from outdoor faucets and open the outside hose taps to allow water to drain.

Locate the water shut-off valve
* Learn how to use it in case pipes freeze and burst.
* Do not turn thermostat too low on the coldest days of the year. The hot water baseboard heating unit could freeze ibetween heating cycles.
* Have a plumber apply electrically powered heat tape. This should be done by a professional because it might pose a shock hazard.
* Boiler anti-freeze may be added to any hot water system (since anti-freeze is a toxin, it is best for a professional to install). This provides additional protection to the system and can also be added full strength if you want to turn the heat off during specific periods.

If pipes freeze, follow these procedures to safely thaw them:
* Turn off the water at the shut-off valve.
* Open the nearest faucet — this allows water to drain out as the ice melts.
* Heat the exterior of the pipe with a hair dryer — apply heat slowly and don’t keep heat in one spot.
* Do not try to thaw exposed frozen pipes with an open flame, such as an acetylene torch.

If pipes burst or immediate repairs are needed, call a qualified plumber.