Memphis weather: take preventative measures to prevent freezing pipes
Memphis, Light, Gas and Water has released some tips for preventing pipes from freezing during upcoming cold weather.
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A cold front is expected to push into Memphis towards the end of this week. The National Weather Service predicted yesterday the high temperatures will be in the lower 40s on Wednesday and by Friday we'll be in the teens, with a high of 16 degrees for Shelby County and Memphis. The low on Friday will be 5 degrees. It'll be back up to a high of 22 degrees on Saturday, 29 degrees on Sunday and 39 degrees on Monday.
MLGW has urged customers to take preventative measures to protect pipes during freezing temperatures. Tips include allowing faucets to continuously trickle out water, opening cabinet doors and insulating pipes.
The American Red Cross suggests keeping garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage and opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to "allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing." It also recommends keeping the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night.
"By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst," the American Red Cross website said.
MLGW said that while burst pipes are considered an emergency, it could take some time for crews to respond depending on demand. Customers can call 528-4465 to have water turned off.
Gina Butkovich covers DeSoto County, storytelling and general news. She can be reached at 901-232-6714.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: MLGW releases tips to prevent pipes from freezing
