Freezing temperatures can cause water pipes to freeze or burst, leading to costly damage and service interruptions. Taking a few simple steps now can help protect your home and plumbing during cold weather.
The Macon Water Authority encourages customers to review the tips below when temperatures approach freezing.
🚰 How to Protect Your Pipes
Let One Faucet Drip
- Allow one indoor faucet to drip slowly, especially overnight.
- Focus on faucets connected to pipes along exterior walls or in unheated areas.
Open Cabinet Doors
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
- This is especially helpful in kitchens and bathrooms on exterior walls.
Protect Outdoor Plumbing
- Cover or insulate outdoor faucets.
- Disconnect garden hoses.
- Shut off and drain irrigation systems if possible.
Know Your Shut-Off Valve
- Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve.
- If a pipe bursts, turning off the water quickly can help limit damage.
⚠️ If Temperatures Drop or Power Goes Out
- Pipes can freeze faster if your home loses heat.
- Continue a slow drip if water is still running.
- Never use open flames to thaw pipes.
- Use warm air, such as a hair dryer, or wrap pipes with warm towels.
🤝 We’re Here to Help
MWA crews are prepared to respond during cold weather conditions.
📞 478-464-5600
📧 customercare@maconwater.org