Water pipes that are exposed to extremely cold temperatures, such as outdoor hose bibs, or water supply pipes in unheated areas, may freeze and expand, causing the pipes to burst. Below are some preventive measures you can take in order to protect your pipes during freezing temperatures.

During extreme cold spells:

• To prevent your pipes from freezing, allow a faucet to trickle cold water. Choose a faucet that is the greatest distance from your main water shut off valve and at the highest point in your home. 
• Open the kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow warm air to circulate around the water supply pipes to the sinks.

If temperatures drop below freezing:

• Whether you're at home or away traveling, keep your thermostat set no lower than 55°F to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Shut off and drain the pipes leading to outside faucets and/or hose bibs so no water is left to freeze, expand and cause a leak in these lines. Cover outdoor faucets with an insulated faucet protector.
• Keep all exterior doors and all windows tightly closed.
• Insulate pipes in any unheated or drafty areas.
• Seal all leaks in crawl spaces and basements.
• Make sure all household members know where the main shut-off valve is and how to shut off the water in case of an emergency.
• If your pipes freeze, never thaw a pipe with an open flame. Use warm water to soak towels, then wrap the towels around the frozen pipes.

Repair or replacement of frozen and busted pipes is a costly expense to property owners. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself and your pipes.

If you believe you have frozen pipes and are unsure of where they are frozen at, call Customer Service at 540-245-5670 and a technician will come and evaluate the meter. If you can see the meter is frozen, do not attempt to thaw or de-ice it yourself.