As temperatures begin to drop, it’s time to start thinking about protecting your home’s water system from the harsh effects of winter weather. Frozen pipes, burst lines, and costly repairs can all be prevented with some simple preparation. Follow this essential checklist to keep your water flowing smoothly all winter long.
Indoor Water System Protection
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Check your basement, crawl spaces, attic, and garage for any exposed water pipes. Wrap them with pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape, paying special attention to pipes along exterior walls. Even a small investment in insulation can save you hundreds in repair costs.
Seal Air Leaks
Cold air drafts can quickly freeze pipes. Seal gaps around pipes where they enter your home using caulk or expanding foam. Don’t forget to check around electrical outlets and fixtures on exterior walls.
Know Your Water Shut-Off Valve Location
Every family member should know where the main water shut-off valve is located and how to turn it off quickly in case of an emergency. Test the valve now to ensure it’s working properly. It is recommended to exercise your shut off valve at your home every 6 months to ensure that it works properly, and does not seize up.
Keep Interior Temperature Consistent
Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, even when you’re away. Set your thermostat no lower than 55°F, and open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
Outdoor Water System Winterization
Disconnect and Drain Garden Hoses
Remove all garden hoses from outdoor spigots and drain them completely. Store hoses in a garage or shed where they won’t freeze and crack.
Shut Off Outdoor Water Valves
Turn off the water supply to outdoor spigots from inside your home, then open the outdoor faucets to drain any remaining water. Leave outdoor faucets open throughout winter.
Protect Outdoor Fixtures
Install insulated faucet covers on all outdoor spigots. These inexpensive covers provide an extra layer of protection against freezing temperatures.
Additional Winter Water Tips
Monitor Your Water Usage
Take advantage of EJ Water’s smart meter technology and sign up for usage alerts at beaconama.net/signup. Unusual spikes in water usage during winter often indicate a leak or frozen pipe issue.
Drip Faucets During Extreme Cold
During particularly cold snaps, allow faucets to drip slightly overnight. Moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water.
Have an Emergency Plan
Keep the contact information for a trusted plumber handy, and know how to contact EJ Water in case of service issues. Consider keeping bottled water on hand for emergencies.
When to Call for Help
If you discover frozen pipes, don’t panic. Never use an open flame to thaw pipes – this creates a serious fire hazard. Instead, use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels. If you can’t locate the frozen section or if a pipe has burst, shut off your main water valve immediately and call a professional plumber.
Stay Connected
Remember, EJ Water is here to support you year-round. Our smart meter technology can help you catch problems early, and our customer service team is available to answer questions about your water service.
Taking these preventive steps now can save you from expensive repairs and water damage later. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your family has reliable, clean water throughout the winter months.
For more information about EJ Water services or to sign up for usage alerts, visit our website at ejwatercoop.com. Stay warm, stay safe, and keep that water flowing!
