![]() Expanding water can cause pipes to break leading to expensive repairs. As water in your pipe freezes, it expands and places immense pressure on the pipe wall. Water meters located inside or outside homes and buildings may freeze when temperatures fall below freezing.Įvery autumn as temperatures drop it’s important to be prepared for the cold weather’s effect on your home’s water pipes. Water utilities will replace outside water meters. Mark the shut-off valve with fluorescent paint or tape so you can find it in the dark.Ĭall your water utility’s customer service line immediately if you think your meter is frozen.ĭo not thaw your water meter. Use a pipe or crescent wrench to turn off the water. If the valve is outside your house, lift the cover with a large screwdriver. Look for the main valve where the water supply enters your house (usually in the basement) or in a concrete box near the street. How do I find my main water shut off valve? Check for other frozen pipes in your home or business, especially those pipes that are located along an exterior wall or bring the water into the building at the foundation. Leaks or pools of water from pipes means there was a burst or crack.Ĭall a licensed plumber if you cannot locate the frozen section, you are unable to reach it, or you are unable to thaw it. Once pipes are thawed, slowly turn water back on and check all joints for leaks and other areas for cracks that may have occurred as a result of the freeze.Ĭheck all pipes and joints for leaks or cracks. ![]() Also, do not use devices that will cause the melted ice to boil, as that can also cause pipes to break. Keep all sources of heat away from flammable materials and do not use any open flame devices, kerosene heaters, or blow torches. This will help melt more ice.Īpply heat to or around the pipe using a hair dryer. Open the faucet so that water will flow through the pipe once the area is melted. ![]() Turn off the water immediately at the main shut off valve. But if they have running water, it’s likely your pipes have frozen. If they have a loss of water too, it may be the result of a main break. When freezing weather is coming, turn off water to outside spigots and drain all water from the line.įirst, check with a neighbor to see if they’re experiencing the same issue. Keep outsides valve open so water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing a break. Open the outside spigots to allow to drain water out. Open cupboards and vanities to warm pipes.Ĭlose inside valves that control the water supply. Set home thermostats above 55 degrees during cold weather.ĭrip cold water in farthest faucet from your main valve.
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