Cold Weather Tips

Cold weather can freeze pipes quickly—here are tips from Lawrence Utilities to help protect your home and avoid costly damage.

6 Simple Ways to Prevent Freezing

1. Know your main shutoff valve

Make sure everyone in your household knows where it is and how to turn it off in an emergency.

2. Let warm air circulate

Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets, especially if pipes run along exterior walls.

3. Insulate and seal

Close crawlspace vents, secure basement windows, and seal cracks where cold air can enter.

4. Keep garage doors closed

If plumbing is in or near your garage, keeping the door closed helps maintain warmth.

5. Protect pipes during extreme cold

Consider insulated heating tape for metal pipes and let a small stream of water run if you’ve had freezing issues before.

6. Never turn off the heat

Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you’re away.

Need Help?

Lawrence Utilities Business Office: (317) 542-0511