As temperatures continue to drop, it’s important to take a few simple steps to protect your home’s plumbing. With a little preparation, you can greatly reduce the risk of costly repairs, water damage, and service disruptions caused by frozen pipes.
Use the following quick tips to protect your home and indoor plumbing.
Insulate Your Pipes: One of the most effective ways to protect your pipes from freezing is to insulate them. Insulation materials, such as foam sleeves or towels, can be wrapped around exposed pipes in your crawl spaces or attics.
Winterize Pool Equipment: To prevent freezing, continue running your pool pumps and other equipment, or consult a pool technician on how to best winterize your pool equipment.
Let Faucets Drip: On extremely cold nights, allow your faucets to drip slowly to keep water moving through the pipes. If you know the faucet furthest away from your water meter, run that one. Don’t waste a drop – collect this water in a container and use it to water indoor plants.
Keep the Heat On: If you are away from home, it’s important to maintain a consistent indoor temperature to prevent your pipes from freezing. Keep your thermostat set at the same temperature day and night. Leave cabinet doors open to allow the heated air from the rest of your house to circulate the pipes. Note: Do not to leave electric space heaters unattended.
Emergency Preparedness: In case of extreme cold or power outages, be prepared. Have a supply of bottled water and emergency plumbing supplies on hand. Know how to shut off the water supply to your home to prevent extensive damage if a pipe bursts.
Questions? We are here to help. Contact our Customer Service team or send us a message via My Utility Account.