Keep Water Flowing, Not Frozen
Prevent frozen and broken pipes
You can save yourself the hassle and cost of emergency repairs by taking a few simple steps to reduce the risk of burst pipes before freezing weather sets in:
- Drain or blow out all irrigation systems.
- Remove hoses from outside faucets and install an insulated cover on faucets.
- Insulate or install heat tape on water pipes exposed to the cold.
- If you have installed heat tapes, check to be sure they are working.
- Make sure all foundation vents are closed or plugged.
- Secure basements against the cold. Fill drafty cracks and repair broken windows.
- Look for your main shut-off valve, usually located where the water pipe enters your house. If you do not have a main shut-off valve, install one in case of emergency.
During a Cold Snap
We suggest that you take a few extra steps when winter temperatures drop below 20-degrees:
- Open cabinet doors below sinks located against outside walls. Insulation in the walls may not be thick enough to keep pipes from freezing.
- Turn on a small but steady stream of water at the inside faucet farthest away from where your water supply enters your home. Flowing water does not freeze as quickly as still water.