Prevent Frozen Pipes
When temperatures dip, the water in a household pipe can freeze and expand. If it expands too much the pipe bursts, water escapes and serious damage can occur.
Prevention is the key.
Pipes in attics, crawl spaces and outside walls are all vulnerable to freezing, especially if there are cracks or openings that allow cold outside air to flow across the pipes. Seal all holes to the outside with caulk and use foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves (the thicker the better to insulate all pipes).
Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow your house's interior air to warm any pipes that may be inside the cabinets.
Allow faucets to drip slowly. Pipes break from a buildup of internal pressure. Opening the faucet eliminates this pressure. If the dripping stops, it may mean that ice is blocking the pipe; keep the faucet open.
If you are going to be away, be careful how much you lower the thermostat. For unattended homes it may be a good idea to drain all water lines before cold Tompkins County winters. Shut off the main valve (usually at the meter or where the main line enters the house), and then turn on every water fixture (hot and cold) until the water quits running.