The long-range forecast is showing that we will have some cold temperatures this weekend, possibly dipping below zero. While we know to bundle ourselves up to keep warm and to check on the elderly and homebound, many people forget to check to make sure their pipes stay warm as well. Also, in the event there is a break please call police dispatch at 609-296-9416 and they will notify the water and sewer department.
Ice forming in a pipe does not typically cause a break where the ice blockage occurs. Rather, following a complete ice blockage in a pipe, continued freezing and expansion inside the pipe causes water pressure to increase downstream -- between the ice blockage and a closed faucet at the end. Usually the pipe bursts where little or no ice has formed.
Here are some tips to help avoid this common cause of winter property damage:
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes:
•Pipes that have frozen in the past or near exterior walls are obvious candidates for special attention.
•Insulate areas where vulnerable pipes are located.
•When insulation isn't enough, consider pipe wrappings embedded with electrical coils (heat tape) that provide an outside source of heat.
•Remove hoses from outside faucets. The faucets can't drain properly with a hose attached and will freeze and break if the hose is left attached.
•During severe cold weather, resist the urge to lower your thermostat to save money while you are gone for the day.
•Open the doors to kitchen and bathroom cabinets under your sinks so heat from the room will help warm the pipes.
•Running water does not freeze very readily. During severe cold weather, keep a stream of water trickling out of faucets or spouts attached to vulnerable pipes.
•If you have a sprinkler system, drain all outdoor pipes and turn off the water supply to the system.
•Know where your main water emergency shut-off valve is located.
What To Do If A Pipe Freezes:
•To prevent a frozen pipe from bursting, open the faucet it supplies with water. Then add heat to the area where the pipe is located.
•Turn off the water supply to that line.
•If a pipe does burst, immediately call dispatch at 609-296-9416 they will contact the water and sewer employees
