Winter Water Tips

FROZEN WATER PIPES

How to Avoid or Fix Frozen Pipes
In extreme sub-zero temperatures, Public Works responds to many calls for frozen pipes.  Lower water temperatures combined with cold air movement around plumbing fixtures can create freezing in water lines.  Under these conditions, water can freeze in the lines in just a couple of hours.

What to do if your pipes freeze:
Shut off the water immediately.  Do not attempt to thaw frozen pipes unless the water is shut off.  Freezing often can cause unseen cracks in pipes or joints.

• Apply heat to the frozen pipe by warming the air around it, or by applying heat directly to a pipe.  You can use a hair dryer, space heater, or hot water.  Be sure not to leave space heaters unattended, and avoid the use of kerosene heaters or open flames.
• Once the pipes have thawed, turn the water back on slowly and check for cracks and leaks.

When you are away:
Have a friend, relative, or neighbor regulary check your property to ensure that the heat is working and the pipes have not frozen.
 

HEATING TIPS
DURING EXTREME COLD WEATHER