With the deep freeze forecasted for this weekend, the District wants to remind customers for the potential dangers of frozen pipes bursting. Below is some important information to help you prevent pipes in your homes and businesses from freezing.
If Pipes Do Freeze:
Just because a pipe freezes does not mean that it has to burst. If you turn on your faucets and nothing comes out, leave them turned on and call a plumber. DO NOT try to thaw a pipe with a torch or open flame. This could cause a fire hazard. You may be able to thaw the pipe with warm air from a hair dryer. Start by warming the pipe as close to the faucet as possible and work outwards.
Preventing Pipe Bursts:
During extreme cold weather, running warm water through the pipes-even at a trickle-can help prevent frozen pipes.
- Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes.
- Keep the thermostat no lower than 55 degrees if leaving your home for an extended period of time.
- Insulate pipes in crawl spaces and attics using heat tape or foam-rubber pipe insulation. Exposed pipes are more susceptible to freezing.
- Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where pipes are located. Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, vents and pipes. Even the smallest opening can allow enough cold air in to cause a pipe to freeze. Use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.
- Disconnect outdoor hoses and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets.
If your pipes have already burst, turn off your water at the main water shutoff and call the District Office at (978) 443-6602, during our normal business hours (8:00 AM-4:00 PM) or the Police Department outside normal business hours.