October 7, 2009 - With the forecast calling for snow and cold temperatures, Denver Water is offering a few tips to help save you headaches and money:
- Since you won’t need to water your grass, now is the time to winterize your sprinkler system. This will help prevent leaks in your sprinkler lines and equipment, and avoid costly repairs and wasted water in the spring. Water expands when it freezes, so if there still is water in your sprinkler system, you are at risk of getting broken lines and equipment. Also, make sure to disconnect and drain all garden hoses.
- To keep pipes from freezing, Denver Water recommends the following:
- Keep open cabinet doors leading to exposed pipes (such as access doors for sinks), so that household air can warm them. The natural flow of warmer air will help combat many problems.
- If you have an attached garage, keep its doors shut. Occasionally, plumbing is routed through this unheated space, leaving it vulnerable to winter's worst.
- Crack a faucet farthest from the place where your water enters the house. A very slow drip will keep water molecules moving, reducing the chance that pipes will freeze. Place a bucket underneath the faucet so the water can be saved for other household uses.
- Keep your thermostat set above 65 degrees when leaving your house or business for several days.
- Insulate pipes that may be vulnerable to the cold or have caused problems before. Pipes close to exterior walls or in unheated basements or crawlspaces can be wrapped with pieces of insulation. Don't overlook pipes near windows, which can quickly freeze. For particularly difficult pipes, consult a professional on how to select and apply heat tape.
- Know the location of your water shut-off switch and test it regularly. If a pipe breaks, you won’t want to have to find it then or, worse, wait for someone to arrive at your place to find it for you. In most single-family homes, the shut-off valve is in the basement or the crawlspace, on a wall facing the street.
More tips are available here or by calling 303-893-2444.