When to drain faucets in Arizona during freezing winter weather

Much of Arizona is under a Frost warning as more normal winter weather finally returns to the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Severity was expected to be moderate, but frost and freeze could kill crops and other sensitive vegetation and potentially damage unprotected outdoor utilities.

When temperatures drop below freezing, it is essential to prepare your home. Failure to prepare for the cold can result in major damage to the home that can cost thousands of dollars to repair.

Here’s what Arizonans need to know about protecting their pipes from freezing and what to do if your pipes are already frozen.

How to prevent pipes from freezing

At this time of year it is important to check your local weather forecast daily to be prepared for frost warnings. When a freeze warning is issued, it’s time to protect your faucets.

However, if you are not yet prepared or still need to use your faucets regularly, here is some advice on how to protect them.

How to prevent pipes from freezing

This will prevent your pipes from freezing when the weather gets colder.

Problem solved, checked

Adjust your thermostat

Maintain a temperature of at least 60 degrees.
Open cabinets and vanities to allow warm air to reach the pipes, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, said Brycen Sperlich, owner of Prime Drain Cleaning and Plumbing in Tennessee USA TODAY Earlier this year.

Allow taps to drain properly

Set faucets to a small, steady drip rather than a stream to save water while preventing freezing.
Drain at the faucet furthest from your home’s main water valve.
“You don’t have to drain them all — one or two is fine,” Sperlich told USA TODAY.

Cover external connections

Before the temperature drops below 32 degrees, outdoor taps attached to houses should be opened to allow water to drain away. Faucet covers should also be put on.

Which pipes freeze the most?

Here are the pipes The Red Cross says that it freezes most often in houses:

Pipes exposed to “severe cold,” including outdoor hose connections, swimming pool utility lines, and water sprinkler lines. (If you have pool or sprinkler supply lines, don’t forget to drain those too.)
Water supply lines in unheated indoor areas, including basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages and closets.
Those that run into exterior walls that “have little or no insulation.”

What you should do if your pipe is already frozen

If you’re worried about further damage or aren’t sure how to handle the situation, it’s best to call a local plumber to safely resolve the issue. However, you can relieve some of the pressure yourself.

Here is a step-by-step process described by American Red Cross.

Close main water supply valve

This will prevent water from flowing into the frozen pipe, reducing the risk of a pipe bursting.

Thaw the frozen pipes

Apply heat with a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels wrapped around the pipe.
Avoid using open flames, e.g. B. a blowtorch, as these can damage the pipe or cause a fire.

Keep a faucet open

Run a faucet connected to the frozen pipe. This helps water flow as the ice melts and reduces pressure, reducing the risk of a pipe bursting.

How do I find my main water shutoff valve?

The main water shutoff valve is usually located where the water supply enters your home – usually in the garage or in a concrete or metal box near the street.

Familiarize yourself with the location before temperatures drop below freezing so you can respond quickly in the event of a pipe burst.