With cold days ahead, Halifax Water advises customers to keep an eye on pipes
As the cold days approach, Halifax Water is urging customers to take precautions to prevent potential issues with their internal plumbing. Freezing temperatures can lead to frozen pipes and ultimately result in a loss of water service. CBC meteorologist Ryan Snoddon has forecasted temperatures to drop to -12°C to -18°C by Tuesday morning, with wind chill values in the -20s.
To avoid any disruption in water service, Halifax Water recommends that customers ensure they have a safe heat source near the area where the water service lateral enters their home. The lateral is typically located in a basement or utility closet near the water meter. Jeff Myrick, the senior communications manager at Halifax Water, emphasized the importance of having a heat source in place based on past experiences during extreme cold snaps.
In February 2023, many older homes in the Halifax region experienced burst pipes due to the shifting ground, causing water to leak into basements. To prevent similar incidents, Halifax Water advises customers to keep the area near the lateral warm using devices such as space heaters, hair dryers, or heat lamps. It is crucial to avoid using open flames and to monitor the heat source regularly.
If a customer notices a lack of water without receiving a service interruption notice from Halifax Water, it is likely that their pipes are frozen. Myrick suggests acting quickly to prevent further damage as frozen water expands and can lead to more significant problems along the pipeline. Customers can contact Halifax Water to shut off the water on the street in case of a burst pipe to minimize property damage.
Ultimately, homeowners are responsible for maintaining the condition of the pipes on their property to ensure a consistent water supply to their homes. By taking proactive measures to keep pipes warm and addressing any issues promptly, customers can prevent costly damages and disruptions to their water service during the cold winter months.
