ALERTS

Iredell Water urges all customers to take proactive steps to protect their water pipes, as extended periods of freezing temperatures are forecasted for next week. The cold snap may last up to 72 hour with temperatures below 32 degrees and daily lows expected to drop into the teens or possible single digits..

Freezing temperatures can lead to frozen water lines, burst pipes, and costly repairs. However, a few simple precautions can help safeguard your home or business.

Why Pipes Freeze

When water freezes, it expands, putting immense pressure on pipes made of metal or plastic. Pipes most at risk include:

• Outdoor hose bibs.
• Pipes in unheated spaces, such as garages, attics, or under kitchen cabinets.
• Exposed lines near foundation vents or in crawl spaces.
• Water meter boxes with lids removed or not completely backfilled.

Steps to Protect Your Pipes

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes: Wrap pipes in unheated areas with foam insulation or heat tape. Pay special attention to exposed lines near foundation vents.
2. Close Foundation Vents: Prevent cold air from entering crawl spaces by closing foundation vents.
3. Keep Meter Lids Secure: Ensure the lid on your water meter is securely in place to prevent freezing. In our climate, the warmth of the ground is sufficient to keep the meter from freezing, provided the lid is on the box and the surrounding area is properly backfilled with dirt. This is especially important for new construction sites. Frozen meters are costly, and customers who leave meters exposed may face a minimum fee of $300.00 to replace frozen meters.
4. Backfill Around Meter Boxes: For homes with recently installed or repaired private service lines, ensure the water line ditch is properly backfilled, particularly around the meter box. (See note above in Step 3.)
5. Let Faucets Drip: During extreme cold, allow a small trickle of water to run from faucets, especially those connected to exposed pipes or located along exterior walls. Moving water is less likely to freeze.
6. Open Cabinet Doors: Open cabinets under sinks in kitchens and bathrooms to allow warm air to circulate around pipes, particularly those near exterior walls.
7. Disconnect Hoses: Remove and drain garden hoses, and shut off water to outdoor faucets if possible.

Act Now to Avoid Costly Repairs

Taking these precautions before the cold weather arrives can save you from the inconvenience and expense of dealing with frozen or burst pipes.

If you experience a water emergency, please contact Iredell Water at 704-876-0672 or, for after-hours assistance, call 704-876-0673.

Stay safe, stay warm, and thank you for helping us protect your water service during this cold snap.