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Water has a unique property in that it
expands as it freezes. As water expands, it exerts pressure on the
walls of its container. However strong a water pipe may be,
expanding water can cause pipes to burst. Pipes that freeze most
frequently are those exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs,
swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines. Water
can also freeze in pipes in unheated interior areas like basements
and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets. Pipes that
run against exterior walls with little or no insulation are also
subject to freezing.
Prevent freezing of these water supply
lines and pipes by following these tips:
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Eliminate drafts by closing
off crawl space vents and doors, repairing broken or cracked
basement windows, making sure basement doors and windows
close tightly, and sealing off cracks in walls. |
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Insulate pipes in unheated
areas, including crawl spaces. Pipes
should be wrapped with inexpensive foam insulation available
at local plumbing supply and hardware stores. To protect
pipes you can’t get to, consider upgrading the insulation
between your walls. |
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Protect your meter from
freezing. If you have an outdoor meter pit, check the
condition of the lid regularly. If the lid is broken or missing, call a CWA Customer Service Representative at
610-876-8181 or
800-793-2323. |
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Keep the heat on in the house when you go away. This will
protect the pipes if the temperature drops unexpectedly. |
What
should you do if your pipes do freeze?
Call our Customer Service Department at
610-876-8181 or 800-793-2323. The Authority is accessible 24 hours a
day seven days a week.
We will do whatever we can to
help. But remember, frozen pipes on your property are your
responsibility. If you have had frozen pipes in the past, and you
don’t take preventative measures, chances are it will happen again.
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