Department of Public Works - Bureau of Water & Wastewater Winter Water Tips

Guard Against Cold Drafts

Since most water meters and pipes are located in unheated areas, they are vulnerable when temperatures dip below freezing. Even a small draft of cold air through a cracked basement window, foundation or sill during extremely cold periods could cause freezing conditions. Without ample heat, over time, the cold can even penetrate a well-insulated wall.

If your pipes are in a closed location, leave a door to a heated room open to warm up the area. You should also:

  • Repair broken or cracked windows and walls.
  • Replace standard windows in your basement with storm windows.
  • Close tightly all windows and doors to the outside.
  • Insulate outside walls.
  • Eliminate drafts from crawl spaces.
  • Periodically monitor your sump pump.
  • Keep bottled water on hand.
  • Report water main breaks, leaking hydrants or exterior water leaks to our One Call Center by dialing 311.

Protect Your Water Meter and Pipes

Frozen water meters and household pipes can freeze you out of water service and can be expensive to repair or replace. Before it gets any colder, take preventative steps to protect your water meter and pipes from freezing and check them frequently during cold periods. If you plan to vacation during the cold weather months, be sure to ask a friend or family member to check your home periodically while you are away.

Protect Your Water Meter

Water meters are tested and examined by inspectors for accuracy, but they can be damaged by freezing conditions. If your water meter freezes, the Bureau of Water and Wastewater can use proper equipment to thaw your meter. Meters are designed with a casing to prevent damage to internal parts.

Protect Your Water Pipes

Water inside pipes can freeze when temperatures drop. If water lines do freeze, it is the resident's responsibility to have them thawed or repaired. Protect pipes now by insulating them and outside walls and by providing a source of heat. For example, if your kitchen sink is installed against an outside wall, insulate the wall and open the cabinets underneath the sink to allow warm air to reach the pipes. Take the following additional precautions:

  • Check the temperature near your pipes frequently during cold periods.
  • (Remember, cold settles near the floor and along the walls, so place the thermometer close to the pipe for an accurate reading.)
  • Remove water hoses from outside connections.
  • Turn off the water to outdoor faucets and drain the pipes. Frozen water lines or pipes inside your home can begin with a frozen outside faucet.
  • Allow water to trickle from a faucet at the lowest point in your basement to prevent pipes from freezing.

When Meters and Pipes Freeze

Don't panic if your water meter or pipes freeze. First, open a faucet near the meter or frozen pipes to release any vapor from melting ice. You'll know if the ice is melting when water begins to run through the open faucet. You should be familiar with the location of your main water shutoff valve and individual sink valves so you can quickly turn off the water if a pipe does burst.

Baltimore City residents can dial 311 to request assistance with a frozen water meter. An inspector will be assigned to come out, assess any possible complications and make corrections or give proper recommendations. However, if your pipes freeze, please contact a plumbing professional for assistance. Baltimore City is not responsible for the maintenance or repair of household pipes.

Sun. July 20, 2008