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Protect Your Home This Winter with Iowa American Water

As winter approaches, the effects of below-zero temperatures can wreak havoc on homes and properties. Iowa American Water urges its customers to take proactive measures to safeguard their plumbing and water meters against the harsh conditions. Ensuring that your home is ready is not only about comfort but also about avoiding significant financial burdens that arise from frozen pipes and expensive repairs.

Why Preparations Matter

Tony Loete, Vice President of Operations at Iowa American Water, emphasizes the importance of taking preventive steps as winter descends. "Taking time to prepare and regularly checking on your pipes during extremely cold days will help ensure you and your loved ones stay safe and comfortable and avoid unplanned plumbing repairs and property damage," he states.

By following a few simple tips, homeowners can prepare for the cold, ensuring a more worry-free winter season.

Key Steps to Winterize Your Plumbing

Here are essential considerations to protect your plumbing systems from the cold:

1. Locate Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve

Knowing how to shut off your water in case of an emergency is crucial. Most homes have the main shut-off valve located near the water meter or at the point where the water line enters the house. To help identify it quickly during an unexpected situation, hang a clear I.D. tag on the valve.

2. Test the Shut-Off Valve

Once you’ve found the valve, make sure it's working properly by turning it off and checking if the rest of the home’s water fixtures stop functioning. This proactive step could save you from a plumbing disaster.

3. Seal Out the Cold

Analyze your home for any sources of cold drafts that could lead to freezing pipes. Insulate exposed water lines, particularly those located in unheated spaces like basements and garages. Check for gaps in windows and doors that could allow cold air to seep in.

4. Wrap Exposed Pipes

For pipes that remain exposed to cold air, consider wrapping them in insulation or heat tape. Even fabric or newspaper can be effective in providing some extra warmth.

5. Encourage Water Movement

During extreme cold, letting your faucets drip slightly can keep the water flowing. Although this may increase water bills slightly, the cost is negligible compared to the potential damage that can result from a burst pipe.

6. Monitor Your Home Temperature

When you're away, keep your thermostat set to at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit to help prevent pipe freeze. If possible, have someone check on your property regularly to ensure everything is functioning well. You might also want to invest in a freeze alarm that will notify you if temperatures drop below a safe threshold.

What to Do If Pipes Freeze

If you suspect that your pipes have frozen, follow these steps:
1. Turn Off the Water Immediately – Before attempting to thaw anything, ensure you stop the water supply to prevent further issues.
2. Warm the Area – Use a hairdryer or space heater to gently warm the area around the frozen pipe, ensuring you don’t use open flames.
3. Check for Damage – Once thawed, slowly turn the water back on and carefully check for any cracks or leaks.

Conclusion

With these proactive strategies, customers of Iowa American Water can reduce the risk of plumbing issues during the colder months. Visit Iowa American Water's website for more information on winter preparedness and ensure your home stays safe and functional throughout the season.

About Iowa American Water: As a dedicated utility provider for more than 227,000 residents in Iowa, Iowa American Water continues to prioritize customer well-being and water quality through effective service and support. Explore more at iowaamwater.com.