Pipes -- along with pets and plants -- should be on the minds of residents this weekend, as uncommonly-cold air will send overnight temperatures the next two nights to, or below, the 32-degree freezing mark in Osceola County.
Toho Water Authority is reminding customers that, when temperatures dip that low, precautions need to taken to prevent water pipes from freezing, and potentially breaking when water in the pipes freezes and expands.
Even tiny cracks can release hundreds of gallons of water a day, Toho Water says, which may cause your bill to increase and even could cause flooding and structural damage to your home. Here are some of its recommended steps to take:
- Cover outdoor water valves and spigots when temperatures dip below 32 degrees. A fitted plastic cover can be found at most hardware and home improvement stores, but tape and cardboard wrapped around the spigot can be just as effective.
- Wrap any exposed water pipes to insulates them against freezing; it helps to prevent water waste by keeping the water in the pipes warmer.
- Invest in a water heater blanket, available at most hardware and home improvement stores. This can also save water and help cut water and heating bills.
- Turn off your irrigation system at the main control and open each valve until the entire system drains of water. After the system is drained, close each valve and leave the system shut off until you’re ready to use.
- Open cabinet doors when temperatures dip below 32 degrees to expose pipes to heat.
- Drip the faucet overnight in order to prevent freezing. Capture this water and use beneficially in other ways.
- If you notice pipes are frozen, shut off the water at the main shut off valve and allow the pipes to thaw. Once thawed, have a licensed plumber come out to assess the damage and make repairs.
- Shut off your main water valve and turn on a faucet to allow all the water in the pipes to drain out if you are leaving the home for an extended period of time.
Also remember to bring in sensitive potted plants (cover those in the ground with a blanket) and outdoor pets during the coldest of the weather.
Toho Water's pipes won't be freezing next week, as unidirectional line cleaning efforts continue next week after the holidays, from Wednesday through Friday.
The week's locations are east of Canoe Creek Road north of Nolte Road. Affected areas likely to experience a temporary drop in water pressure and discolored water until the flushing operations are completed include:
- Davis Estates
- Lorraine Estates
- Academy for Kids
- Canoe Creek Crossings
- Kanuga Village
- Cody Adkins Creations
- St. Cloud Christian Preparatory School
- April Showers Landscape and Irrigation
- Stephanie Rothstein Memorial Park
As always, for more information visit www.tohowater.com or contact Toho Water Authority’s Customer Service Center serving St. Cloud at 407-957-7344 (after the holidays starting Tuesday).
