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Bedford Co. Utility District
P.O. Box 2755
214 Bethany Lane
Shelbyville, TN 37162
931-684-1667
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Cold Weather Tips:
It is that time of year when the temperatures start
to dip below freezing and we have a few pointers for you.
Freezing Weather Protection
Before the onset of cold weather, prevent freezing of
water supply lines and pipes by:
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Letting cold water
drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. |
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Draining water from
swimming pools and water sprinkler supply lines. |
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Removing, drain and
store hoses. |
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Closing inside
valves supplying outdoor hose spigots. Open outside hose spigots
to allow water to drain. |
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Keeping the outside
valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand
without causing the pipe to break. |
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Insulating water
pipes by carefully wrapping them with ends butted tightly and
joints sealed with tape. Newspaper can provide some degree of
insulation and protection to exposed pipes. |
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Opening kitchen and
bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around
the plumbing. |
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Leaving the heat in
your home set to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees F, if
you're away during cold weather. |
Thawing Frozen Pipes
If you turn on a faucet during freezing weather and
only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. The following are tips
to thaw a frozen pipe:
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Keep the faucet
open. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the
pipe. After flow is achieved, allow faucet to drip to prevent
refreezing. |
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Apply heat to the
section of frozen pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped
around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater
(kept away from flammable materials) or wrapping pipes with
towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or
propane heater, charcoal stove or other open flame device. |
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Apply heat until
full pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the
frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible or if you
cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber. |
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Check all other
faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen
pipes. |
Future Freeze Protection
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Consider relocating
exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing. A
professional can relocate pipes if the home is remodeled. |
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Add insulation to
attics, basements and crawl spaces. |
*Please be aware that letting faucets drip will increase your monthly
water bill.
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