As freezing temperatures settle in, remember to let faucets drip

UNION – Fall is in full swing, and nighttime temperatures are regularly dipping below freezing across eastern Oregon. While daytime highs are still relatively comfortable, and true winter conditions are still a way off, it’s never too early to prepare against the threat of frozen plumbing. Various cities (most recently Union) and utility providers are beginning to post reminders on the risk of frozen pipes as the temperatures drop. For anyone in Eastern Oregon concerned about their plumbing freezing, some preventative measures include:

• Letting faucets drip or trickle. Keeping cold water moving, especially on faucets connected to exposed pipes, can help prevent freezing.
• Leaving cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate and reach plumbing.
• Wrap interior, attic, and crawl-space pipes in insulation.

Other solutions, as recommended in previous years by the American Red Cross, include:

• Using pipe sleeves, heat tape, or similar materials on exposed piping.
• Opening outside hose bibs to allow water to drain.
• Keep exterior valves open to allow frozen water to expand without damaging pipes. 
• Keep the thermostat always set to the same temperature.
• Set the thermostat to no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit when away from home.

Keep in mind that some cities may offer credit on water usage during extended periods of below freezing temperatures to encourage faucet dripping. In previous years, the city of North Powder, for example, has offered residents 10,000 gallons of “freeze credits’ for additional water usage when temperatures are below freezing for 3 consecutive days.

Residents should contact their local city government or utility provider and verify if any form of credit is available to compensate for faucet dripping. Even if credit is not offered, higher water usage is generally cheaper than costly pipe repairs and long-term water damage.

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Elkhorn Media Group