AAA provided steps to prevent frozen pipes and expensive repairs during this weekend’s frigid temperatures.

The association said prolonged periods of below freezing weather can cause issues for heating systems, plumbing and exterior features, according to a news release from AAA. 

AAA insurance reports that the average frozen pipe claim costs over $11,000, though the amount can become higher depending on damage to personal property.

What to do to protect a home, according to AAA:

• Learn where a home’s water shutoff valve is and how to turn off the water in case of an emergency.
• Leave faucets dripping to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate the pipes.
• Air inside the walls, where pipes are, can be much colder than air in the room. Ensure that the thermostat is no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even if you will be away from home.
• Remove hoses and cover exterior faucets.
• Repair or replace weather stripping around windows, doors, vents, fans, plumbing, air conditioners and electrical and gas lines.
• Use caulk or insulation to seal any openings on exterior walls.
• Replace your furnace air filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to improve unit efficiency.
• Well-insulated basements and crawl spaces will help protect pipes. Close foundation vents and windows to basements. Wrap vulnerable pipes with pipe insulation.
• Close the wood-burning fireplace flue damper while unused. Follow all manufacturer instructions for gas fireplaces, including those with pilot lights, which may require the flue to be partially open at all times.

What’s covered by homeowners insurance?

Standard home insurance policies may cover damages to the home from roof collapse and damage from burst pipes (and repair costs), as long as regular maintenance is performed and owners or renters maintain heat in the building, according to the release.

What is not covered by homeowners insurance

According to AAA, most storm damage is covered under home insurance, but there are some possible exclusions.

Flash floods caused by a sudden rise in temperature could cause significant damage to a home, but will not be covered by a standard home insurance policy. Flood insurance can be purchased separately.

The majority of damages not covered by insurance are due to homeowner neglect or lack of maintenance, according to AAA. This can include damages resulting from extreme cold due to failure to maintain heat in a home.

The association said slips and falls are also a possibility in winter, with such incidents usually under liability coverage that comes with a home insurance policy. AAA recommends double checking this with an insurance agent. If an accident is experienced, help with potential legal aspects may also be included in a policy, according to the release.

AAA said taking the necessary precautions and preparing the home for winter weather can help avoid making an insurance claim.