Tips for Protecting Water Pipelines

As we enter the winter season, low temperatures can cause water pipelines to freeze and burst. This can create tremendous damage and leave property owners with costly repair bills.

Here are five tips from Hillsborough County's Water Resource Division:
1. Protect pipes, especially if they are exposed or the house or building insulation is insufficient. Look for where the water service enters the structure, and use an old blanket or material available from a home-improvement store to insulate exposed piping.
2. Homes and buildings with crawl spaces are particularly susceptible to wind and freezing temperatures, so outdoor pipes should be protected from the elements.
3, Secure water meter covers so the meter and surrounding pipes are not exposed.
4. Insulate or cover exposed backflow prevention devices on fire lines and irrigation systems.
5. Disconnect any outside water hoses from spigots, as water trapped inside can freeze and crack the hose.
 
If piping does freeze, be patient. It doesn't mean your water service has been turned off. Wait a few hours for temperatures to warm and the pipes to thaw. Never use an open flame to thaw out a pipe.
 
If a pipe does burst, turn off the water supply by using the home's shut-off valve, typically located under a sink or just outside the structure. If you are unable to shut off the water and are a county water customer, immediately call Customer Service, 813-272-6680 or, after regular business hours, 813-744-5600.