WSSC Provides Tips to Homeowners on Preventing Frozen Pipes

LAUREL, MD – January 3, 2014:  The New Year has rung in a sharp drop in temperatures, which can lead to frozen pipes for homeowners. WSSC offers customers the following winterizing tips to prevent costly and inconvenient repairs brought about by frozen or ruptured pipes.

• Repair broken windows, doors and walls.
• Tightly close all doors and windows.
• Insulate outside walls.
• Inquire with your local hardware store about materials to insulate pipes and meters.
• Seal all leaks in crawl spaces and basements.
• Cover vents from the inside with insulation, cardboard, plastic or newspaper, if they will not close.
• Turn off the water to outside faucets, remove hoses and drain the pipes.

If a pipe in your home freezes:

• Completely open the cold water faucet nearest the frozen pipe. This relieves the pressure and reduces the chance of breakage.
• Use a hand-held dryer if you decide to thaw the pipe yourself.
• If you're not certain what to do, call a registered plumber.

To report water or sewer emergencies, call our emergency call center at 1-800-828-6439 or (301) 206-4002. To learn about WSSC-related incidents that may affect your service sign up for WSSC’s Customer Notification System. Visit our service alert page for an interactive map that allows users to search by address. Or check on service alerts, report a problem (even send a photo) or pay your bill with our mobile app.