With some of the first below-freezing weather of this winter arriving this week, Quad Cities homeowners should be prepared. While most usually think about their furnace and shoveling snow, Iowa American Water is encouraging residents to check their water pipes.
Spokeswoman Lisa Reisen says water meters and pipes can easily freeze or even burst if not properly protected.
"It's not something that's at the top of mind for most people. So, as this weather is getting colder and we know we've got some colder temps coming down, now is the time for people to protect those pipes and their water meters so they don't freeze when temperatures take a plunge."
Many homeowners prepare their pipes in the fall, but Reisen says this year's above-average temperatures convinced some to put it off.
"We've had such a nice fall this year. It's been hard to motivate people to worry about protecting their pipes from freezing when its been 70 degrees. But that's really the key, it's the prevention."
During the cold months, she recommends insulating water pipes in cold areas of homes and sealing off drafty doors and windows. If your pipes do freeze, shut off the water and carefully warm the air around the pipes with a hair dryer or space heater.
Reisen says prevention is the best way to avoid costly repairs. Replacing a broken water meter alone can cost over $300.
