As winter weather and frigid temperatures continue in Lawrence, the Municipal Services & Operations Department is offering these tips to help prevent frozen water pipes in homes:
- Run cold water in a fast drip or steady stream about the size of a pencil lead through a household faucet.
- Expose pipes to warm air by opening cabinet doors under kitchen or bathroom sinks, specifically on an outside wall.
- Eliminate drafts and cold air into basements or crawlspaces.
- Protect exposed pipes in unheated areas with insulation or heating tape.
- Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor spigots and cover the fixture with an insulating bonnet.
- During extended absences away from home, leave the heat on to keep the pipes from freezing.
If a resident suspects a water meter or service line is frozen, they should call the Municipal Services & Operations Department at 785-832-7800, and a City staff member will assess the situation. Residents should not attempt to open the water meter pit or thaw the meter.
If residents have frozen pipes, they should shut off the water at the master valve, turn off the water heater and ice maker, and call a licensed plumber. An open flame should never be used to try to thaw pipes because it causes a fire hazard and overheating a single spot can burst the pipe.
Contact: Josh Carson, Public Information Officer, Municipal Services & Operations – jcarson@lawrenceks.org | 785-832-7822