How to Keep Your Water Pipes from Freezing

Our warmer than usual winter came to a screeching halt around the region Tuesday. With temperatures fighting to reach zero in places like Great Falls, residents are doing their best to cope with the cold.

From heaters conking out to frozen pipes, plumbers see it all this time of year.

Every winter the staff at Central Plumbing and Heating stays busy fixing pipes and heaters. Tuesday was no different with several customers calling about furnace repair.

When temperatures dip so far below freezing, ice can form in pipes, the pipes will eventually expand forcing them to break releasing water all over.

Professionals say it's important to keep an eye on water lines to keep them from freezing. Mike Waldenberg, the owner of Central Plumbing and Heating, says the best way to keep water running at your place is to insulate and winterize your home. You should check for cracks in your foundation or other areas which may let cold air into your house.

So far this winter, the company hasn't responded to many frozen pipes. “It's been pretty mild, so a first blast like we're getting right now will have our guys busy. Typically what you'll find if it's a new structure, if somebody's moved into a house that's fairly new to them, they're not familiar with some of these cold sources or problems until they walk downstairs and see water running, etcetera,” Waldenberg explains.

He suggests you consider shutting off your water feed if you'll be traveling out of town. And says it's important to disconnect your garden hose.

Winterizing your home by filling cracks in the foundation and adding insulation will not only help keep pipes from freezing, but Waldenberg says could actually save you money and energy.