7 ways to avoid a winter plumbing disaster

The weather outside is, once again, frightful. After last year’s polar vortex assault, many plumbing contractors saw the results of what happens when homeowners and businesses forget to protect their plumbing system against the dangers of freezing-cold winter weather.

Showing just how costly frozen pipes alone can be, the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety said in a report that a frozen pipes can lead to bursting pipes, which may cause more than $5,000 in damage. On the other hand, protecting against the freeze with insulation costs less than a dollar.

The freezing point is 32°F; many parts of the country already dropping well below that. It may not be a bad idea to start protecting your pipes and plumbing immediately. Here are seven tips to help ensure a safe and secure winter.