With the onset of extreme cold temperatues, the Public Works Department reminds residents to take steps to avoid extensive repairs and water damage caused by frozen pipes:

• Disconnect hoses and turn off water to exterior hose spigots (if shut-off valves are present)
• Keep garage doors closed
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to let warm air reach the pipes (remember to move any chemicals out of the reach of children and pets)
• Consider letting cold water drip from a faucet to keep water flowing
• Keep the thermostat’s temperature constant during the day and night and consider increasing a degree or two.
• If you’re away during cold weather, do not set the temperature lower than 55°F
• Insulate vulnerable pipes
• Seal exterior and interior cracks, holes, and other openings.

If your pipes do freeze:

1. Turn on the faucet of the affected pipe

2. Apply heat to the frozen section of pipe. A heating pad, hair dryer, or portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials) can help. NEVER use an open flame as this may damage the pipe or start a fire

3. Apply the heat until full water pressure is restored

4. Check all other faucets to determine if there are other frozen pipes

5. Call a licensed plumber if these steps don’t work or if you are not comfortable performing these tasks yourself

For more information, visit these resources:

Red Cross

Consumer Reports

Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety

Check out this video on pipe leaks from Consumer Report for more tips.