It's that time of year again, and The Plumbing Source in Cleveland, Ohio, wants you to take preventative measures against Ohio's freezing temperatures. Specifically, when temperatures drop to 20 degrees Fahrenheit and below, your pipes become most susceptible to freezing.

Cleveland's leading plumbing and heating contractors want you to know that there are plenty of ways you can prevent your water supply lines and pipes from freezing, and they are happy to help with any issues you may have. This winter, set aside some time to do the following things to help prevent freezing water supply lines and pipes:

• Install Additional Shut Off Valves: Being able to shut off the water supply to certain areas is helpful when temperatures really plummet. To avoid having to shut off the entire water supply to your home in these cases, call The Plumbing Source to install additional valves where required. Some fixtures, such as sprinklers, should have their water supplies shut off all winter long.

• Drain All Outdoor Hoses & Valves: Ensure all of your hoses are drained, disconnected, and well stored. Next, close all inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs, open the hose bibs, and allow them to drain. Keep outside valves open all winter so that if water freezes inside, it won't cause valves to burst.

• Identify Where Pipe Sleeves Are Needed: Look for unheated areas around your home containing exposed water supply lines. You can insulate these pipes with products such as pipe sleeves and heat tape. If you aren't sure what to use, call The Plumbing Source for help.

• Stay Insulated: Keep your garage closed at all times if water pipes are present. Inside your home, leave kitchen and bathroom cabinets open to allow warm air to circulate around exposed piping. Ensure that the temperature in your home doesn't go lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even if you leave the house for a while.

• Relieve Pipe Pressure: During hard freezes, leave all your taps on just a trickle. This will help lower the chance of pipe bursts.

The Plumbing Source works out of Cleveland, Ohio, and can be reached directly at (877) 768-7239 or online for any needed plumbing repairs, installations, or emergency plumbing services.