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You can fix a leaking outdoor spigot by replacing the washer, tightening the bonnet, or replacing the spigot altogether. Turn off the water supply and open the spigot to see the issue. You may need to tighten the bonnet by 1/8- to 1/4-inch of a turn. You might also need to see if the washer is damaged or worn. If those fixes don’t stop the leak, you should replace the outdoor spigot. Consider a frost-proof sillcock to prevent future freezes and leaking. 

While frozen pipes will eventually thaw on their own as temperatures rise, it is not safe to let this happen unattended. As the ice blockage melts, water can become trapped, building up extreme pressure within the pipe. This pressure can cause the pipe to burst, leading to severe water damage, costly leaks, and serious damage to your plumbing system. It is best to handle frozen pipes as quickly as possible. If you do not see any visible damage, you can try to slowly warm the pipes by increasing warm air circulation or applying warm towels. However, if you spot any leaks or damage, you should call a plumber immediately. The best course of action is always to take preventative measures to stop pipes from freezing.

How much it will cost to install an earthquake shut-off valve depends on who’s doing the installation. The price of the earthquake shut-off valve itself can cost between $250 and $750, and you’ll pay between $150 and $200 for labor if you hire a licensed plumbing contractor. If you install the valve yourself, you’ll save on labor, but you might need to spend $50 to $300 on the right tools for the job (and it’s a complex job that we don’t recommend DIYing).

While PEX can't melt, high temperatures can alter its performance. The maximum heat that PEX can safely be exposed to is 180 degrees Fahrenheit. When PEX is exposed to high temperatures for extended periods of time, it may fail. While copper can withstand hot temperatures better than PEX, copper pipes freeze more easily compared to PEX.