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Cold Weather Tips for Homeowners

  • Ensure heating systems are working properly. For tips on Heat Pumps, visit: Department of Energy - Heat Pump Tips
  • Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly
  • Seal leaks that allow cold air inside
  • Eliminate drafts from crawl spaces by closing crawl space vents and stopping other air inflows during cold periods
  • Check your home’s crawl space, attic, basement, garage, and other areas for exposed water pipes.
    • Wrap exposed pipes with insulation and/or heat tape. If heat tape is used, follow manufacturer’s instructions and all applicable safety standards
  • Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage
  • Secure outdoor hoses, valves and faucets- Make sure all hoses are disconnected from spigots and spigots/faucets are covered
  • The interior pipes most likely to freeze are nearest an outside wall, door, window, and along the floor. Open cabinets doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks
  • Let water drip from faucets- Running water through the pipe-even at a trickle-helps prevent pipes from freezing
  • Set the thermostat at a minimum of 55 degrees during cold weather even if the house is vacant
  • Properly winterize swimming pools and water sprinkler systems following manufacturer’s directions
  • Know the location of your main water shut off valve (if your house has one) or the location of your water meter
    • If needed, water can be shut off at the meter by the homeowner using a crescent wrench. CWL personnel will also be available if assistance is needed.
    • If your water meter box is broken or missing, contact CWL for repair or replacement