Stay Warm & Save Energy
When temperatures take a deep drop, be aware of how to stay warm while saving energy and also avoid damage from freezing pipes. Energy costs can run high when your home heating systems have to run harder based on extremely cold outdoor temperatures.
• Lower the temperature on your thermostat and layer up in clothing to keep you warm. While sleeping or away, lower the thermostat even more or set a programmable thermostat to increase your energy savings.
• Set water heater temperature to no higher than 120° as these units account for 20% of your heating costs.
• Clean or replace your furnace filter.
• Use sealant or metal tape to close over leaks or holes in your air ducts.
• Caulk and add weather stripping to doors and windows that leak air.
• Allow direct sunlight to enter windows to increase solar heat gain in the building.
• Make sure your insulation is up to a foot or foot and a half deep in your attic or crawl space.
Freezing Pipes Causes Damage
Besides staying safe and reducing exposure to the elements, be aware of non-insulated areas and spots in older homes where water pipes could freeze and cause damage. Here are a few precautions homeowners may take to prevent water lines from freezing, as well as some action that can be taken if the pipes should burst:
For older homes and non-insulated areas, learn how to prevent frozen pipes:
· If pipes are exposed to cold air, such as in attics or crawlspaces, ensure they are fitted with proper insulation or heat tape.
· Caulk any cracks or holes in outside walls and foundations near water pipes.
· Close and cover exterior crawl space vents with foam board insulation for the winter (remember to re-open the vents in the springtime).
· Mobile home residents should ensure heat tape is applied properly and working.
· Run your hot and cold faucets at a trickle to relieve excessive pressure.
· For sinks on outside walls, leave cabinet doors open to allow room air to circulate and warm pipes.
· Disconnect exterior water hoses.
· If you plan to be away from home for a few days, don’t lower the thermostat below 58 to 60 degrees. Shut off the main water valve and drain the entire system for extended periods.
Dealing With Frozen Pipes:
Before taking action, consult a professional plumber.
· If a pipe has burst and it is possible to reach your main water valve without standing in water, shut it off. If there is standing water or you can’t locate your main valve, call CWLP at 217-789-2323 ext. 2, and a crew member will come to your home to shut your water off. This is also the time to call your plumber to repair the broken pipe.
· If a pipe hasn’t burst, turn on all water faucets. Pipes that aren’t completely frozen may thaw out because the incoming water is above freezing. Leaving faucets open slightly will also help prevent pipes from breaking as they thaw.
· If you’re unsure where the frozen section of pipe may be, first warm the pipe closest to where water enters the home. This will help prevent further freezing and may quicken thawing.
· Never leave electric thawing equipment unattended, and be careful of possible electric shock. Don't use electrical equipment in or near standing water. Never attempt to thaw pipes with an open flame.
· Call a plumber If some fixtures are still able to run water. It is possible that the problem is not a frozen water pipe.