$ave by winterizing home plumbing.

• Position: Cold Snap - Brief article

When the first big winter storm hits, many people focus on prepping the outside of the home by, for instance, shoveling snow and spreading de-icer. However, homeowners also should take preventative steps indoors, advises Roto-Rooter, Cincinnati, Ohio, the largest provider of plumbing and drain cleaning services in North America.

Freezing temperatures that last for days at a time can cause a variety of plumbing problems. When pipes freeze, water in the pipes turns to ice and expands. The pressure causes cracks, whether the pipe is made of plastic, copper, or steel. Even a tiny crack can unleash 250 gallons of water in a single day.

Even in the South, where cold weather is a rarity, there are simple steps to take to prevent pipes from freezing and damaging structures when temperatures drop:

* Disconnect outside water hoses. If left connected during freezing temperatures, water in hoses will freeze and expand causing connecting faucets and pipes to freeze and break.

* Inspect outside faucets. If they are dripping or leaking, make the necessary repairs or call a plumber.

* Cover outside faucets...