Prepare for Freezing Weather

  • LOCATE YOUR WATER SHUTOFF
    Make sure everyone in your residence knows where the water main shutoff valve is located and keep it clear of debris and obstacles at all times. Some homes have shutoff valves on their side of the meter, if you do not know if you have one, check the inspection report from when you bought the house. For renters, please consult with your property manager. If you cannot find your shutoff valve or if it is damaged, then you should be prepared to access the shutoff valve in the meter box. Make sure your meter box is cleaned out and you can access the shutoff. You may need a water meter key that can be used to open the box and turn the shut off valve, these can be purchased at most hardware stores.
  • KEEP OUT COLD AIR
    Tightly close doors and windows to the outside. Make repairs to broken or drafty windows, doors, and walls. Seal all leaks in crawl spaces. Winterize unheated spaces and close garage doors for the duration of the freeze.
  • EXPOSED PIPES AND WATER HEATERS
    Insulate pipes in unheated and drafty areas, such as an attic or garage. Also check manufacturer recommendations for your tanked and tankless water heaters. Hardware and plumbing supply stores carry insulation to help keep pipes from freezing.
  • OUTSIDE FAUCETS
    Turn off outside faucets. Remove all connected hoses and wrap faucets with towels or a Styrofoam insulator. Turn off and drain automatic sprinkler systems. If you have an RPZ on your sprinkler system, to prevent it from freezing, make sure it is insulated properly. The best way to prevent it from freezing and causing a water leak is to cut it off and drain it.
  • PREPARE BEFORE LEAVING TOWN
    If you plan to be away during a time when freezing temperatures are possible, turn off your water at the meter and set your thermostat to 65 degrees or higher.

During Freezing Weather (1-2 days)

  • PROTECT INDOOR FAUCETS
    Open cabinets beneath kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around pipes. Be sure to remove any toxic substances located in these cabinets if there are children or pets living in the residence.
  • DRIP (stream) YOUR FAUCETS
    You should drip your faucets slowly if the temperatures get below freezing. If the temperature gets significantly lower then freezing, it is recommended you lightly stream your faucets especially if the pipes in your house are prone to freezing.

Checking your House for Water Leaks

After the weather has warmed up, Here are some ways you can check for water leaks:

  1. Make sure no water is running in your house. This means no dripping of faucets, washing machine, or toilets running.
  2. Find your water meter. If the dial on your meter is turning, then you probably have water leaking somewhere.

If these steps do not work, contact a licensed plumber.