Public Works receives numerous inquiries on how to “winterize” a water service. You may need to winterize your home’s water service if your home will be vacant due to move/sale of your home, an extended vacation, or home renovations that require having the water shut off, etc.
Here are a few suggestions to avoid frozen pipes:
• Pipes MUST BE DRAINED when water is turned off for an extended period of time.
• Always allow heated air to circulate around pipes and water meters. Insulate problem areas and leave cabinet doors open.
• In empty/vacant homes, don’t turn off the heat—instead turn down thermostats to maintain a minimum temperature to keep pipes from freezing. Installing a programmable thermostat is recommended to regulate the temperature when needed.
• Allow water to slowly drip from faucets with water pipes adjacent to an outside wall.
• Do not use an air compressor to “blow out” a private water service. This can allow dirt and other contaminants to enter the private and public water supply causing a potential health risk to residents and others drinking City water.
If you have any questions, please contact Public Works Department at 630.377.4405.
Winterize Your Water Service
