With the region seeing frigid weather again this week—we're talking single-digits—there's an increased risk of pipes freezing.

Here are some tips on how to avoid that situation and the "needless expense and aggravation" that comes with it.

·         Locate and insulate pipes most susceptible to freezing, typically those near outer walls, in the basement, crawl spaces or in the attic.

·         Wrap pipes with insulation or heat tape (UL approved).

·         Seal any leaks that allow cold air inside where pipes are located.

·         Locate water shut off valves, replace if necessary with a more reliable, quarter-turn ball valve.

·         Disconnect garden hoses; shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets. This reduces the chance of freezing in the short span of pipe just inside the house.

·         Make sure you and members of the household know how to shut off the water, in case pipes burst. Stopping the water flow minimizes the damage to your home.