Winterize Plumbing

Protecting Outside Plumbing:

• Cover outdoor faucets, spigots, and backflow preventers with insulating foam covers or insulated bags.
• Insulate exposed pipes with foam insulation. Towels or blankets may be used temporarily, but keep them dry and covered with plastic.
• Shut down and drain sprinkler and irrigation systems before freezing temperatures arrive.

Protect Inside Plumbing:

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Allow faucets to slow drip slightly during freezing temperatures to relieve pressure.
• Seal air leaks around plumbing with caulk, and weatherstrip doors, windows, and wall openings.

If you plan to be away:

• Consider turning off your water at the meter
• Open faucets to drain remaining water from pipes
• Before restoring service, ensure faucets are turned back off.

Please note: Texas Water does not shut off water service due to freezing weather.

1. Turn on the Faucet: Open the faucet connected to the frozen pipe. This helps relieve pressure as the ice melts.
2. Thaw Pipes Safely
   1. Use a hair dryer or warm towels.
   2. Apply heat slowly, starting near the faucet and moving toward the frozen section.
   3. Do NOT use open flames, blowtorches, or space heaters.

3. Check for Leaks

   As pipes thaw, watch for leaks that could indicate a cracked or burst pipe.

 If a Pipe Bursts:

1. Turn off the water at the meter to stop the water flow.
2. Contact a Licensed Plumber for repairs
3. Minimize Water Damage: Use towels, fans, and dehumidifiers to dry affected areas.

Monitor Your Water Usage

• Use tools like WaterSmart to track daily usage and receive alerts for abnormal activity
   
  Sign up for the customer portal, WaterSmart, today!

If you have inconsistencies in your usage, follow these steps to help identify leaks https://www.txwaterco.com/customer-care/how-detect-and-address-water-leaks

• Post updates on our Service Alerts page
• Notify customers using our Everbridge communication system (email, phone, or text)

Here's a video on how to prepare your irrigation for cooler weather.