Water has a unique property in that it expands when it freezes. If water freezes and expands inside your pipes, it could cause them to break which can get expensive to repair.
“Buy sleeves, different sized insulation sleeves," said Emergency Management Coordinator Steve Mild.
He says just like a human, your pipes need to be bundled and covered up too during the winter months.
“On the faucets even though they're up against the house, they need to be covered up also, because that's actually where the cold starts to get into the pipes,” said Mild.
Superintendent of Black Plumbing, Terry Williams, says caring for outdoor faucets is essential to preventing your pipes from breaking.
"Remove the water hoses, disconnect them from the side of your house that helps drastically," said Williams.
Also, if you have exposed pipes it's a good idea to invest in heat tape.
"Wrap the tape around the pipe and plug it in and it keeps the pipes warm, and its best to put that on and then insulate over it," said Williams.
If you won't be home for a few days Williams adds to make sure you keep your faucets dripping. The water running through the pipes will keep them from freezing over.
“That's mainly where we see our breakages, is on exposed pipes,” said Williams.
He says keeping your house warm on the inside helps keep your plumbing intact.
“Remember your house needs heat too don't just turn it off. Put it down to 55 [degrees] so the house doesn't get frozen," said Williams.
