Tips for Protecting Your Pipes During Freezing Temps

Don't use a torch to thaw out frozen plumbing

If you haven’t already tackled the list below, be sure to follow these tips when the temps begin to freeze:

• Keep a small trickle of hot and cold water going, especially on faucets located on or near an exterior wall.
   
• Keep your thermostat set at a constant temperature. Don’t decrease it during the night.
   
• Open cabinet doors to allow heat into the area of any uninsulated pipes.

If your pipes do freeze:

• Turn off water at the main shut off and leave the faucets open.
   
• Call a plumber.
   
• You can try to use hot towels, electrical heating tape, or a hair dryer to thaw out a frozen pipe, but don’t use an electrical device around standing water.
   
• Don't use a torch to thaw out frozen plumbing. A water loss is better than a fire loss.
   
• If you do have a water leak, call a water mitigation company ASAP.

If you need to file a claim, visit our Claim Center.

The information presented in this document is for informational and educational purposes only. It is intended to assist individuals, farmers, and business owners in identifying common hazards/risks and considering proactive loss prevention or loss mitigation actions. For information related to specific loss hazards, please contact your insurance agent.