News Dyker Heights

Expert tells how to keep water pipes from freezing

February 13, 2017 By Paula Katinas Brooklyn Daily Eagle
One way to help prevent pipes from freezing in the winter is to leave cabinet doors open to let warm air in, according to one expert. Eagle photo by Paula Katinas
One way to help prevent pipes from freezing in the winter is to leave cabinet doors open to let warm air in, according to one expert. Eagle photo by Paula Katinas
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The snowstorm that hit New York City last week also brought sub-freezing temperatures to the region and added to homeowners’ worries over the possibility of water pipes freezing or even rupturing.

There are steps a homeowner can take to reduce the chances of water pipes freezing in the winter, according to one expert.

Michael Petri, the owner of Petri Plumbing & Heating Inc., said homeowners should take preventative measures.

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“A common problem we see is the aftermath of improper winterization and prevention. Taking the necessary steps to prevent your pipes from freezing could save homeowners a lot of money,” Petri said.

Founded in 1906, Petri Plumbing & Heating Inc. is located at 901 Bay Ridge Ave. in Dyker Heights.

Petri offered the following tips to prevent water pipes from bursting:

  • Open cabinet doors — Keep cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathroom open to allow warm air to circulate.

  • Insulate pipes — Invest in a pipe sleeve or heating tape to provide insulation.

  • Frequently run water — Allow the faucets to drip lukewarm water to minimize freezing.

  • Cover outdoor faucets — Outdoor water faucets are extremely susceptible to freezing. Homeowners should cover the faucets with insulated sleeves. The sleeves can be found at hardware and home improvement stores.

In the event a water pipe does freeze, the homeowner should immediately locate the water valve and cut it off.

Petri said using a blow dryer or another heating device in an attempt to thaw out a frozen pipe could help. But he added that there is still a potential danger in taking such an action.

 


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