Winter temperatures in the desert can drop below freezing. Plan ahead to prevent pipes from freezing this winter and avoid costly repairs to your property with these simple tips:
- Wrap any exposed pipes outside or in unheated areas of your home with insulation (a towel, blanket, small rug, etc.)
- Remove garden hoses from outside faucets.
- Cover vents around the foundation of your home.
- If you have a pool, set your timer for the pump to run between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. Running water won’t freeze.
- Turn off drip irrigation and sprinkler systems.
- Know where your property owner’s cut-off valve is located and how to use it. The valve is located adjacent to the water meter box.
- Drip outside faucets 24 hours a day (5 drops per minute). This is not necessary unless temperatures are expected to be 28 degrees or below for at least 4 hours. (Be sure to turn off the faucets after the threat of freezing weather.)
- Open cabinet doors under sinks adjacent to outside walls.
What do I do if my pipes are frozen?
- If you turn on your outside hose faucet and no water comes out, it’s likely your pipes have frozen. Check with a neighbor to see if they have water coming out of their hose faucet.
- If your pipes are frozen and are located in an area where they will get some sunshine they should thaw by mid-morning. If your pipes are frozen and are located in a shaded area it is likely that they will not thaw until after midday.
- If you detect that your water pipes have frozen and burst, turn off the water at the main shut-off valve and contact a licensed plumbing professional.
- Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame. Water damage is preferable to burning down your house.
To report a water emergency, contact Scottsdale Water customer service 24 hours a day at 480-312-5650.