Winter Conservation & Home Preparedness

Preparing your home ahead of freezing temperatures can help protect your property and conserve energy during winter weather events.

• Set your water heater to 120 degrees to save energy and prevent overheating

• Turn down your thermostat slightly and dress in layers to stay warm

• Set ceiling fan blades to spin clockwise to push warm air downward

• Check for and repair air leaks around exterior doors, windows, and attic spaces

• Close doors and vents in unused rooms to avoid heating areas that aren’t in use

• If available, manage your heating system with a smart thermostat

• Locate your main water shut-off valve, typically found about two feet from your water meter, so you can quickly turn off water if a pipe breaks during freezing conditions

❄️ Freezing Weather Tips

Outdoors

• Wrap exposed pipes outside and underneath your home (if above ground) with insulation

• Cover outdoor faucets

• Disconnect and drain all outdoor water hoses

• If you will be away from home, consider turning off water at the hand cut-off valve (normally located about two feet from your water meter) and draining pipes

• If you have a pool, ensure the main pool pump runs continuously during freezing temperatures to prevent pipes from freezing

Indoors

• Protect water pipes that run through the attic

• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors under sinks—especially those along exterior walls—to allow warm air to circulate around pipes

• Maintain a home temperature between 60–68 degrees

🧊 After the Freeze

• Do not attempt to thaw frozen pipes with a torch or open flame

• Thaw pipes slowly using a hair dryer or warm water

• Inspect pipes after thawing for leaks or damage

• Watch for water in unexpected areas, which may indicate a leak or burst pipe

• Monitor your home’s water usage for several days after the freeze to identify potential issues