Meter

In cold temperatures, the water meter and pipes in your home or business can be in jeopardy of freezing. Meters and pipes located in inadequately insulated crawl spaces and basements, where extremely cold temperatures can exist, are the most vulnerable.

Certain precautions should be taken to prevent your pipes and water meters from freezing! Not only do they cause a big mess, but are a big hassle as well. Costly repairs and replacements are your responsibility, but can be avoided if the following safeguards are taken:

• Insulate around or apply heat tape to vulnerable pipes and meters so they are adequately protected from the cold.
• Leave cabinets under a sink or other closed area that contains plumbing open to allow for warm air circulation around the pipes.
• Turn-off water and disconnect hoses to all outside spigots.
• Blow out all irrigation systems.
• Arrange for someone to stop by and check the flow of your faucets if you plan to be out of town for an extended period of time. Leave your thermostat on at least 65 and do not leave faucets dripping.
• If a pipe does freeze, have a hairdryer or space heater available for use in thawing the pipe. Do not overheat the pipe though, as it could cause a steam explosion.
• In the event that a pipe or meter does burst, turn the water off at the inside shut-off valve and contact a licensed plumber immediately.