Be prepared for freezing temps

As winter temperatures drop, the risk of frozen pipes becomes a concern for homeowners in Marshfield. City Administrator Sam Rost urges residents to take preventative steps to avoid costly damage and inconvenience from freezing pipes.

"The majority of the issues we see are on the homeowner's side of the system," Rost explained. "We do sometimes see lines freeze up, but it's typically in the plumbing leading from the city's main water lines to individual homes."

To help residents protect their homes from freezing pipes, Rost offered several practical tips to keep the water flowing smoothly throughout the cold winter months.

Key Prevention Tips for Homeowners

One of the most common causes of frozen pipes is the connection to outdoor hoses.

"We always recommend that homeowners make sure they disconnect their hoses from their hose bibs or outdoor hydrants," Rost advised. "If hoses are left attached, they can cause water to back up into the pipes, which can freeze and crack the line."

Additionally, for homes with pipes exposed to the elements or located in uninsulated crawl spaces, insulation is crucial.

"It's a good idea to insulate any exposed pipes, especially those that aren't buried deeply in the ground," said Rost. "If you have a crawl space, make sure it's properly sealed and insulated to keep the cold out."

Homeowners can also help prevent frozen pipes by keeping a faucet dripping during extremely cold weather.

"It's not necessary to leave the faucet running, but a small drip can keep water moving through the pipes and prevent freezing," Rost explained. "Running water is wasteful, but a little drip can make a big difference."

For added protection, homeowners are advised to open the cabinet doors beneath sinks.

"If your house tends to stay cold, opening the cabinet doors allows warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes, which can help prevent freezing."

What to Do If Pipes Freeze

Despite taking precautions, sometimes pipes will still freeze. If this happens, Rost emphasized the importance of acting quickly.

"If your pipes freeze, the first step is to call a professional," he said. "It’s essential to use heat safely to thaw the pipes, but it’s not something homeowners should attempt without experience or help."

If a frozen pipe does burst, the consequences can be severe.

"As the ice inside the pipe expands, it can cause the pipe to crack or burst, leading to water damage in your home," Rost warned. "If you notice a frozen pipe, it's crucial to turn off the water supply immediately. If your home has an internal shutoff valve, now is the time to locate it."

Rost suggested that homeowners take a few moments this winter to familiarize themselves with their home's water shutoff valve.

"If you don't know where your main shutoff is, it’s a good idea to figure that out now," he said. "In the event of a burst pipe, having the ability to quickly turn off the water can help minimize damage."

Meter Lid Check

Residents should keep an eye on their water meter lids, which can sometimes be knocked loose, especially during yard work.

"We’ve had instances where people accidentally bump or move their meter lids while mowing their lawns, leaving them open," he said. "That lets cold air get into the meter box and can cause freezing, too."

City crews are always on the lookout for open meter lids and will make an effort to secure them, but homeowners should also be proactive.

"If you notice a lid is open, take the time to close it, especially if temperatures are expected to drop," Rost added.

With these tips in mind, Marshfield residents can better prepare their homes for the winter season and avoid the headaches that come with frozen pipes.

For more information or assistance with plumbing concerns, homeowners are encouraged to contact local plumbing professionals.