Winterization tips can help you avoid costly repairs.
EL PASO – Our region is expected to see a drastic drop in temperatures this weekend, and in anticipation, El Paso Water wants to encourage customers to “Protect Your Pipes” ahead of the cold front. Taking proactive measures could avoid costly repairs to a home or business. The upcoming weather event is expected to bring a mix of rain and snow along with frigid temperatures. When water freezes, it expands its volume by nearly ten percent, and the pressure can result in broken water lines.
“Outside pipes are particularly vulnerable to freeze damage if they have not been winterized.” said Alan Shubert, Vice President of Operations and Technical Services. “We encourage homes and businesses to take action before temperatures dip to avoid water loss and costly repairs.”
EPWater recommends these tips:
- Insulate exposed pipes and faucets outside and around your home, including those in unheated areas like basements, garages, attics, or crawl spaces.
- Businesses with irrigation systems should insulate above-ground backflow devices. Turn off the isolation valve and open the bleeders with a small flat-head screwdriver.
- In severe cold only, let cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Running a drip of water through the pipes helps prevent pipes from freezing because the temperature of the water is above freezing.
- If a pipe does break on your property, know where your water meter is and how to turn water off immediately to avoid further damage and water waste.
- If you will be away for several days, turn off your water at the meter or ask someone to monitor your home in your absence.
For a video demonstration, click here.
Reminder: It is a customer’s responsibility for water lines that begin at the meter and extend throughout the property. If customers do experience a large amount of water loss due to a broken pipe, they can contact customer service to get a partial credit on their bill once repairs are completed.