With temperatures expected to drop below freezing this week, the City of Wrenford is reminding residents to take simple steps to protect their water service lines from freezing. Frozen pipes can burst and cause costly water damage to your home, and in some cases, leave you without water for days.
How to protect your water line
Water service lines are the pipes that run from the City's main under the street, past your property line, to the water meter at your home. While the City owns the section up to the meter, you are responsible for everything on your side of the meter. Lines in older neighbourhoods, near the Tamsin River and Corvid Creek, and in areas with shallow frost depth are at a higher risk of freezing.
- Keep your thermostat set to a minimum of 15 °C, even if you are away for a few days.
- Open interior doors and kitchen or bathroom cabinets in cold areas to let warm air reach the pipes.
- Insulate exposed pipes in unheated spaces like basements, crawl spaces, attics and garages.
- Disconnect and drain hoses, and shut off the inside valve to outdoor faucets before the ground freezes.
- Run a pencil-width stream of water through the taps if you expect a prolonged cold snap. You will be responsible for the water used unless the City issues an official advisory.
If your pipes freeze
If you notice no water coming from your taps, your pipes may have frozen. Turn off the main water valve inside your home to prevent a burst pipe when the ice thaws. You can use a hair dryer or heating pad on accessible frozen pipes, but never use an open flame.
If the City needs to thaw the private portion of your water service line, crews will require a signed Work Authorization Form before beginning work. Homeowners cover the cost of thawing the private portion of the line. Once thawed, check for leaks and report any water running onto your property or street using the online reporting tool.
"A quick call to a licensed plumber or a simple insulation project can save you hundreds of dollars in repairs," says Patrick Nguyen, Water Operations Manager. "We encourage everyone to check their lines now, before the deep freeze arrives."
For a full list of winter preparation tips, how to use a water shut-off key, and information on after-hours emergency repairs, visit Protecting water lines and meters from freezing. If you have questions about your service line or need to report a leak, email [email protected] or call 519-555-0100. More information on how the City manages drinking water and wastewater is available at Water & Wastewater.