With freezing overnight temperatures forecast for the weekend and through most of next week,Joshua Basin Water District reminds its customers that a few simple steps will help to avoid breaks and flooding that can occur when water pipes freeze. Standing water in pipes and hoses expands as it freezes; this can cause pipes and hoses to break. Leaks due to freezing water are usually not noticed until the frozen water in the pipe thaws, allowing water to run through the break and flood property.
Pipes that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs and irrigation lines, are the most likely to freeze. Disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses when not in use. Outdoor taps can be left on at a very slow trickle overnight; this will keep the water moving so that it will not freeze. Remember to turn the taps off after freezing temperatures have passed to avoid unnecessary water waste.
It’s best to insulate pipes and faucets that are outside or in unheated spaces like garages and crawlspaces. Some buildings even have water pipes in attics. Water lines to swamp coolers are also vulnerable. If you plan to be away from home overnight, turn your water off at the meter box; then open and drain all household and irrigation lines to prevent them from freezing while you’re gone. Adjust the thermostat in the house before you leave so that interior water pipes will be protected from freezing. Find the main water shutoff valve so you can turn the water off in case of an emergency. Or, look for the handle that turns from side to side in your meter box to turn the water off at the meter. If a break does occur, turn the water off at the meter to prevent water loss and to allow the break to be repaired.
