As temperatures continue to dip, now is the time to start thinking about the possibility of pipes freezing in your home. Frozen water pipes are a problem that can happen in homes with both plastic and copper pipes. Learn how to prevent water pipes from freezing and avoid significant property damage:
- Insulate pipes in unheated spaces such as a crawlspace, attic, or basement. Open cabinet doors to circulate warm air on pipes.
- Remove and drain hoses from outdoor spigots. If there is a shut-off valve specifically for an outdoor spigot, turn the valve to the off position, open the spigot, and drain any water remaining in the spigot and pipe.
- You can also let cold water drip from a faucet when temperatures drop below freezing. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.
- Sign-up for EyeOnWater: As the temperatures rise, pipes frozen by the low temperatures will begin to thaw which can lead to pipe leaks. Residents can sign-up for the City’s free, secure service “EyeOnWater” alerts to track water usage and identify leaks quickly.
If you need the water shut off in an emergency, please contact Customer Service at (704) 638-5300 (Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). For water and/or sewer emergencies after hours, call (704) 638-5339.
Get informed on these and other helpful tips on preparedness by visiting: REDCROSS.org, ReadyROWAN.org, and FEMA.gov.