With the ongoing cold snap, AAA Insurance is seeing an increase in claims for home damage from bursting frozen pipes, which are at risk of freezing every winter due to sudden temperature drops, poor insulation or incorrect thermostat settings. This winter has been extremely cold, and AAA Western and Central New York offers suggestions that can help prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting, which can cause significant damage and expense.

“Freezing temperatures put your pipes at risk, and recovery can be difficult and costly,” said AAA Insurance Manager Dave Kirst. “Copper, iron and plastic pipes can burst. A crack as small as 1/8-inch can spew up to 250 gallons of water per day, causing flooding, serious structural damage, and the potential for mold.”

Preventing Frozen Pipes:

• Make sure everyone in your family knows where the water shut-off valve is and how to use it.
• Insulate pipes in crawl spaces and attics, even in areas where freezing is unlikely.
• Seal gaps around pipes that let cold air in, including areas near wiring and dryer vents.
• Disconnect garden hoses and shut off and drainpipes leading to outdoor faucets if possible.
• If a freeze is expected, let warm water drip slightly overnight from an outside-wall faucet.
• When freezing is possible, keep the thermostat set the same day and night.
• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to reach uninsulated pipes under sinks.
• If you leave home for an extended time, maintain minimal heat to prevent freezing.

Recovering from Frozen Pipes:

• If you turn on your faucets and nothing comes out, your pipes are likely frozen.
• You may be able to use a hair dryer to thaw a frozen pipe. Begin by warming the section of pipe closest to the faucet, then work your way out toward the coldest part of the pipe.
• Never use a hair dryer or any electrical appliances in areas of standing water. You could be electrocuted.
• Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame. It could cause a fire.
• If your water pipes have already burst, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve in the house, leave the water faucets turned on, and call a plumber.

“Prevention is key to protecting your home this winter. A few simple steps can help you avoid a frozen pipes nightmare,” Kirst said. “For added peace of mind, it’s a good idea to make sure you have adequate homeowners insurance.”

For more information, call (888) 671-7044 to speak to a AAA insurance representative.