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    1. Piping

    7 ways to avoid a winter plumbing disaster

    Jan. 6, 2015
    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.
    One important piece of advice for customers going away on vacation is to keep their heat on even when theyrsquore away on vacation IBHS said that while lowering heat may help lower bills it could have dire consequences if the temperature happens to drop while away on a winter escape Be sure to keep the heat to no less than 55degF to ensure the inside temperature stays well above freezing In fact when it starts to get very cold it may be a good idea to turn your heat up while at homeAdditional

    The heat is on; keep it on!

    One important piece of advice for customers going away on vacation is to keep their heat on, even when they’re away on vacation. IBHS said that while lowering heat may help lower bills, it could have dire consequences if the temperature happens to drop while away on a winter escape. Be sure to keep the heat to no less than 55°F to ensure the inside temperature stays well above freezing. In fact, when it starts to get very cold, it may be a good idea to turn your heat up while at home.

    Additionally, it’s a good idea to drain the entire system by turning off the main valve and allowing the pipes to drain before leaving, or even before an especially cold night. (Photo illustration by George Frey/Getty Images)

    Slide 1 of 7

    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.

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