(Nicole Reis/meadowlakeNOW Staff)

By Nicole Reis

Frozen Waterlines

City cautions homeowners to prepare waterlines for cold snap

Jan 7, 2020 | 1:05 PM

Temperatures are expected to plummet in Meadow Lake.

City Manager Diane Burton told meadowlakeNOW the biggest risk with a cold snap is freezing waterlines in homes but mobile homes present a higher risk of water line damage during cold months.

“Tips we can give to prepare water lines for winter is to ensure homeowners know how to find and operate the main water shut-off valve for their home. In most homes, the shut-off valve is located at the water meter at the point where line comes into the house. Likely in the basement,” Burton said.

Burton recommends homeowners winterize outdoor faucets, detach outdoor garden houses, turn off outdoor water supplies and allow taps to drain pipes. Insulating pipes prone to freezing,especially ones that are near outside walls and crawl spaces can prevent problems arising from cold temperatures.

“If people are leaving for an extended period of time, we recommend thermostat set at 15 degrees or higher. Turn off the main plumbing line and have someone check the home regularly,” Burton said.

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The city manager suggested sealing air leaks to stop cold air from getting in and to check around windows doors, wiring, dryer vents and pipes.

“If you are concerned about their water line freezing or if it’s happened in the past, homeowners can run a thin stream of water to ensure movement in the water pipes. Best practice is to run cold water from the lowest point in the house,” she said.

Burton added mobile homes have a greater risk of freezing, and dwellers should ensure pipes are insulated and proper skirting is installed around the bottom of the mobile unit to avoid pipes from freezing and breaking.

The city will do a complimentary water line thaw once per winter season. If lines freeze, the city said to call a plumber first. If the city returns, the homeowner will be charged for the cost of the additional visit.

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nicole.reis@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @nicolereis7722