Frozen Water
When water freezes, it expands by approximately 9%. This expansion can cause pipes to burst, leading to significant water damage. As water freezes inside pipes, the increase in volume creates pressure within the confined space of the pipe, and if the pressure becomes too high, the pipe can rupture. This is especially a concern in areas where pipes are exposed to the elements or poorly insulated.
When temperatures are consistently at or below freezing:
- Maintain a continuous drip of water (the size of a pencil lead stream)
- Open cabinet doors to expose pipes to warmer room temperatures to help keep them from freezing.
- Keep thermosatats set to the same temperature during the day and night.
- Insulate your pipes
- Cover outdoor water spigots
- Turn off sprinkler systems
- Disconnect water hoses
- Close garage doors
If your pipes freeze:
- Shut off the water immediately. Don't attempt to thaw frozen pipes unless the water is shut off. Freezing can often cause unseen cracks in pipes or joints.
- Apply heat to the frozen pipe by warming the air around it, or by applying heat directly to a pipe. You can use a hair dryer, space heater or hot water. Be sure not to leave space heaters unattended, and avoid the use of kerosene heaters or open flames.
- Once the pipes have thawed, turn the water back on slowly and check for cracks and leaks.
If your water meter freezes:
DO NOT attempt to thaw the water meter or supply line yourself! Attempting to thaw could result in a misdemeanor and you could be liable for all damages.
Call City Hall at (208)228-3220 during normal business hours, water meters and supply lines will be thawed during regular business hours by appointment.
- Charges for the City to thaw the water meter and supply line:
- First time: Free
- 2nd or More-Property Owner will be charged for Laber Per Man hours, equipment hours, and all replacement parts.
- Thaws are counted from Novemeber 1st-March 31st.
- After the 1st thaw, property owners will be required to drip their water countinuously to prevent freezing.