Quick, simple steps today can help prevent costly frozen pipe damage 

With temperatures expected to stay below freezing and potential snow fall this weekend, Aqua is urging customers to take immediate steps to prevent frozen pipes, which can result in costly repairs and leave families without running water during the coldest days of the year.  

Pipes become especially vulnerable when temperatures stay below freezing for extended periods of time.  

Tips to Prepare Before the Freeze: 

• Stock Up on Supplies: Keep pipe insulation, heat tape, a portable space heater and a hair dryer on hand.
• Locate and Mark Your Master Water Valve: This will allow you to quickly shut off water to your home if a pipe bursts.
• Inspect Outdoor Meter Pits: Ensure lids are intact to prevent freezing in these areas.
• Winterize Outdoor Faucets: Shut off and drain outdoor faucets, including those connected to lawn sprinkling systems.
• Eliminate Drafts in Unheated Areas: Insulate crawl spaces and basements, repair broken windows, and seal gaps to protect pipes. 

Precautions During Freezing Weather: 

• Wrap Pipes and Meters: Use insulation materials or heat tape on your pipes, and wrap indoor meters with a blanket.
• Keep Cabinets Open: If you have interior plumbing along an exterior wall, leave cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Run a Small Drip of Water: If temperatures fall below 10 degrees, leave a slow drip of water running from the faucet farthest from your meter. A slow drip is all that is needed. Please do not fully open faucet.

What to Do if Pipes Freeze: 

• Thaw Safely: If you locate a frozen section of pipe, open a spigot and use a hair dryer or heat tape to thaw it gradually. Never use an open flame.
• Call a Professional: If you cannot thaw the pipe, contact a licensed plumber for assistance. 

These preventative measures can help you avoid expensive cleanups and repairs.   

Aqua invests hundreds of millions of dollars each year to strengthen water and wastewater infrastructure so systems remain dependable — especially during extreme weather that can stress aging pipes and equipment. These ongoing upgrades help ensure reliable service for customers year-round.