Full Notification

City of Thomasville Public Service Announcement: Protect Your Water Lines During Cold Weather

As temperatures drop, the City of Thomasville reminds residents of the importance of protecting water lines from freezing. Frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs and significant water damage, as water expands when it freezes, causing even the strongest pipes to break.

Pipes Most at Risk of Freezing

• Outdoor pipes such as hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and yard sprinkler systems.
• Pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and under kitchen cabinets.
• Pipes along exterior walls with little or no insulation.

Steps to Protect Your Pipes

Take these steps now to reduce the risk of frozen pipes:

1. Prepare Outdoor Plumbing:

   • Drain swimming pool and yard sprinkler lines following the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid using antifreeze in these lines, as it is harmful to the environment and hazardous to people, pets, and plants.
   • Remove, drain, and store outdoor hoses. Shut off and drain water from inside valves connected to outdoor hose bibs.

2. Add Insulation:

   • Insulate unheated spaces like attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
   • Wrap exposed pipes with pipe sleeves, heat tape, or even layers of newspaper in areas that are less prone to prolonged freezing temperatures.

3. Inspect and Relocate:

   • Check for unprotected pipes in unheated areas such as garages and under sinks.
   • Relocate exposed pipes if possible to reduce their exposure to freezing temperatures.

Cold Weather Practices

During cold weather, adopt these measures to prevent pipes from freezing:

• Keep Warm Air Flowing:

  • Open cabinet doors to allow heat to reach under-sink pipes. Make sure harmful chemicals are out of children’s reach.
  • Keep garage doors closed if water supply lines are present.

• Run Water:

  • Let a cold-water faucet drip slowly to keep water moving through the pipes.

• Maintain Consistent Heating:

  • Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature day and night.
  • If you’re leaving town, set your thermostat no lower than 55°F to keep pipes from freezing while you’re away.

Stay Safe and Prepared

By following these simple precautions, you can avoid the inconvenience and expense of frozen or burst pipes. For more information or assistance, please view the Thomasville Public Utilities website at https://www.thomasville-nc.gov/departments/public_works/public_utilities/index.php.

Stay warm and protect your home this winter!