Tips from MSWS to keep pipes from freezing

From Mt. Sterling Water and Sewer

Please be aware that we are expecting temperatures to be extremely cold in the next few days and over the weekend.

To keep pipes from freezing, try the following:

Leave water running at a steady stream, especially rooms with exterior walls (a small DRIP is not sufficient)

Open cabinet doors to allow heat from the home to more efficiently warm these areas

Make sure crawl spaces are closed

If possible, insulate or wrap heat tape around exposed water pipes.

When frozen pipes do occur, do NOT open the water meter box outside your home, as this could compound the problem.

You can gently apply heat to the frozen section using a heating pad, hairdryer, space heater, or warm damp towels.

***DO NOT*** attempt to thaw frozen pipes using an open flame in a confined space. This is to avoid a possible fire hazard or serious injury as a result of oxygen depletion connected with the open flame. Instead contact a plumber for assistance right away.