is your attic well-ventilated?

Just about every parent has had to hear that darn song from the Disney movie Frozen one too many times by now. But while the cold never bothered Elsa, it can and will cause a major problem for the pipes in your house if you don't take some necessary precautions this winter. Here's how you can keep the water flowing now and long after winter's wicked curse is finally broken.

Let the Warm Air In

If you notice that the temperature outside is dropping extra low, it's time to leap into action. Go to your kitchen and each bathroom and anywhere else where you have exposed pipes hiding inside cabinets. Open up each cabinet and keep it open until the temperature begins to climb again. Opening the cabinets will encourage your HVAC system to send its heated air towards the pipes. You might also want to raise your heating temperature for the house a couple of degrees to provide an extra boost.

Let It Flow

Did you know that moving water is much harder to freeze than water that is at a standstill? It's true, and you can use this fact to your advantage while you are trying to safeguard your pipes from the cold. Once again walk to your kitchen, each bathroom and anywhere else you have a faucet. Open the cold water nozzle or level so that just a small bit of water begins to come out. You don't want the flow of this water to be larger than the width of a pen or pencil. Yes, keeping the water running all day will cost you extra money on your water bill, but this is far more preferable when compared to the cost of repairing a frozen pipe that ends up bursting.

Double Check All Insulation

Your pipes are obviously a plumbing issue, but you can offer your plumbing system a big assist by checking the insulation throughout the entire house. Add new weatherstripping under your doors or add some caulk to that drafty window. By keeping heated air inside and cold air outside, you'll give your pipes a fighting chance to make it through this winter without issue.

Contact Professional Help

Winter is always a good time of year to get your plumbing system a full inspection. If you begin to notice your pipes freezing, contact a residential plumbing services expert who can help you before a frozen pipe turns into a burst one.