Prevent Frozen Pipes

As cold weather sets in this winter, it's important to stay informed and prepared to help avoid the messy and expensive issue of frozen pipes. 

All types of pipes, when frozen, will build water pressure and can crack. A crack as small as one-eighth of an inch can unleash more than 250 gallons of water a day and cause flooding, high water bills, and serious property damage. Take a look at the following precautions to help protect your home:

Cold Weather Precautions

1. Use pipe wraps to protect pipes in unheated areas or anywhere they are exposed to freezing temperatures, especially attics, garages and crawl spaces. Insulated pipe wraps can be purchased at your local home improvement or hardware store. Pro tip: pool noodles work great also. 

2. Never let faucets drip outside. If dripping or leaking, make the necessary repairs or call a plumber before a freeze. Cold weather will freeze a small drip, fill the faucet, and freeze the pipe potentially causing it to burst. Insulated wraps for outside faucets can be purchased at your local home improvement or hardware store.

3. Disconnect outside water hoses from spigots. If left connected during freezing temperatures, water in hoses can freeze and expand causing connecting faucets and pipes to burst.

4. Drain and winterize irrigation systems. Wrap pipes where they are exposed and exit the ground. Protect your backflow valve with an insulated box cover. Please contact your lawn care professional for this service.

If Your Pipes Freeze or Burst

1. Don't risk it. If nothing comes out when you turn on your faucet, call a plumber.

2. If you think one of your pipes is frozen or has burst, turn off the water at the main shut-off valve in the house. Your shut-off valve is located where the service line enters your home, usually in a garage or closet, and call a plumber.

3. If you can’t find your main shut-off valve in your house and you have a flooding situation, please call Water Resources at 704-282-4601. We can come out and cut water off at meter.