Winter Freeze Precautions for Your Home Plumbing System

Central Florida regularly enjoys warm weather and sunshine year-round, but occasionally braces for frigid, below-freezing temperatures. Orange County Utilities reminds residents about precautions to prevent damage to their home plumbing systems. When weather conditions plummet to 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below during the forecasted overnight hours, taking some preventative steps could save costly damage to residential pipes.

To safeguard against possible impacts to your home, follow these best practices prior to the arrival of cold weather:

1. Insulate Exposed Water Pipes: Use towels or other insulating materials to wrap any outdoor water pipes. This adds an extra layer of protection, helping to keep the water in the pipes warmer and lowering the risk of freezing.
2. Outdoor Valve and Spigot Protection: Cover outdoor water valves and spigots when temperatures are expected to freeze. Fitted plastic covers will do the job and can be found at most local hardware and home improvement stores.
3. Keep a Drip: Allow a small, steady drip from several indoor faucets. The constant movement of water can prevent freezing by maintaining a flow through the pipes. Please also capture this water and beneficially reuse it to water indoor houseplants or some other use.
4. Emergency Shut-off Awareness:Know the location of your water shut-off valve, typically outside the home or at the meter. Quick action can minimize damage in the case of a burst pipe.
5. Irrigation System Management: Turn off your irrigation system at the main control and drain the system of water by opening each valve. Once the system is drained, close each valve and leave the system shut off until the next time you use it.

Residents are encouraged to share these tips with neighbors and friends to ensure the community is prepared for colder temperatures. For additional assistance with emergency water shut off, please contact Orange County Utilities Dispatch at 407-836-2777.