A "Cold Turkey" Thanksgiving!

This evening the temperature will start falling and bottom out somewhere around 20 degrees Fahrenheit   At the same time, winds overnight will be gusting upwards of 35 mph from the northwest with wind chill temps in the single digits which is enough to wreak havoc with any exposed or problematic domestic water lines.   

A frozen or burst domestic water line is a sure fire way to completely ruin your Thanksgiving festivities but there are a few common sense things we can all do to prevent the problem of freezing pipes from occurring again during this coming cold snap.

• Most importantly, make sure you have an adequate supply of home heating fuel on hand prior to the arrival of the approaching cold air mass and maintain your thermostat at no lower than 65 degrees.

• Allow your faucets to run slightly as a steady trickle. (Note: Make sure the entire family knows that you are dripping the faucet intentionally to avoid a family member from inadvertently shutting it off entirely.)

• Open sink base cabinets and let warmer room air circulate through the interior of the cabinet.

• Wrap the problem pipe with electrical heat tape

• Insulate the problem pipe(s) with foam insulation wrap, especially those that run through unheated spaces.

• Temper any currently unheated crawlspace by placing a heater in the crawlspace. You only need to elevate the crawlspace temperature to modestly above freezing - about 40°F.

• Make sure all outside water bibs are covered/insulated.

And, of course, keep an eye on any elderly/infirm neighbors to make sure they are safe.  After all, it is Thanksgiving!

Stay Safe...Stay Warm...Have a Great Thanksgiving!