We are in the colder months here in the Tennessee Valley and with the wintry mix expected in our area this weekend, now is the time to prepare.
Freezing weather can cause water pipes to burst, leading to costly repairs and unexpected water outages. A little preparation now can save you a big headache later.
To help protect your pipes and get your home winter ready, check out these recommendations from Tennessee American Water.
Before The Temperature Drops
- Locate your main water shut-off valve and make sure you know how to turn it off.
- Drain and disconnect outdoor hoses and irrigation systems.
- Seal or eliminate drafts around exposed pipes, especially near exterior walls.
In Case It Stays Below Freezing
- Pay close attention to pipes in vulnerable areas like basements, garages, crawl spaces, and exterior walls.
- Open cabinet or vanity doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
- Let a small trickle of water run from faucets to help prevent freezing by keeping water moving.
If The Pipes Freeze
- Turn off the main water valve immediately.
- Gently warm the area around the frozen pipe using safe methods—never use an open flame or leave heaters unattended.
- Once the pipe has thawed, slowly turn the water back on and carefully check for leaks.
If at any time you experience and emergency, you can file a report online through Tennessee American Waters Website.
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