Thanks for the info. It’s already -1, your suggestions ain’t happening tonight!
I remember back when we had an ice storm and had no heat in the house except for the fireplace, I used to shut off the main water tap and drain the pipes every night before we went to bed.
By drain, I mean I disconnected the hoses to the washing machine in the basement and turned on the taps. Pipes banged the next morning, but nothing ever froze.
Would that work?
Yes, if you can’t get it right, drain the copper. Build the fire and use fans to circulate the air. It’ll freeze during the day as well, so you got to heat to 32 at least. Sucks to use all your wood, but nothing like losing the copper. You’ll chase that forever. Turn up the heat and eat the expense until the weather moderates. In the spring, insulate. $400 will get most of it done and you need no experience. If you use fiberglass bats, get a bottle of the cheapest fabric softener and when your done with the job, shower with it. Keeps it from itching and you’ll smell good and have the slickest skin ever.