When you open your freezer, it's not really that cold … but it's cold enough to create ice cubes. It works great because an ice cube tray is designed so when water freezes and expands, there is space for the ice cubes. The principal behind ice cubes is the same for water anywhere and sometimes that can be a problem.
If you forget to drain pipes that lead to your outside faucets, they are likely to freeze over the winter although you might not find out until you turn the water back on in the spring. In cold weather climates, one of your home maintenance checklist items should be shutting off outside faucets … and draining the water that may be left in the pipes. It's also a good idea to insulate exposed pipes in case you lose your heat and keep the thermostat at 55 degrees or higher.
Protecting Your Pipes from Freezing
Rather that describe how you can protect your home from freezing pipes, here is an illustration … one of those stories that is worth a 1,000 words. The Chicago Tribune provides more detail starting in their article, What to do about frozen pipes.
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