Keep water meters, pipes from freezing and/or bursting.
During cold weather, Eagle River Water & Sanitation District reminds residents and businesses to protect water meters and supply lines from low temperatures to prevent freezing. A frozen meter or water line may burst and can result in water damage to a property.
Lack of water in your home or business during a cold spell is likely due to pipes frozen within the property. If you believe your pipes are frozen, the quickest solution is to call a plumber. If your residence or business experiences a service line break, immediately shut off the master water shutoff, which is usually located inside your property just before the water meter, and contact a plumber.
Residential and business water meters and pipes should be insulated or located in areas that are kept warm to protect them from freezing. If your water meter or pipes are located in a garage, keep doors fully closed and/or heat the area to reduce the risk of freezing.
Residents and property managers should also pay attention to vulnerable areas such as attics, basements, and crawl spaces, as well as to indoor plumbing located in unheated areas or in places with little or no insulation, such as exterior walls. Even hot water pipes can freeze depending on their location, whether they are insulated, or with extreme low temperatures.
Take these actions to reduce the threat of frozen or burst pipes:
- Locate your master water shutoff so you can turn off your water where it comes into your home or business if a leak or break occurs.
- Set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit at all times, even when your dwelling is unoccupied.
- Insulate vulnerable areas and install pipe insulating products on water lines.
- Close garage doors completely if the water meter or water supply lines are in the garage.
- Check unoccupied residences during and after a cold snap.
Eagle River Water & Sanitation District is responsible for the public water distribution system – the mains, storage tanks, and pumps. If a water main breaks, District staff will respond at all hours of the day and will notify properties in the affected area. To report a suspected main line break, call 970-476-7480 at any time of day.
For more information on preventing or thawing frozen pipes, or for help locating your water meter or master shutoff, contact Customer Service at 970-477-5451.
