BRYN MAWR, PA — With Winter Storm Fern expected to bring prolonged subfreezing temperatures to much of the country this weekend, Aqua Pennsylvania, an Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) subsidiary, is urging customers to take immediate steps to protect their homes from frozen pipes that can rupture, flood properties, and cut off running water during the coldest days of winter.
Company officials said pipes are especially vulnerable when temperatures remain below freezing for extended periods, a scenario forecasters say is likely as the storm system moves across large portions of the United States.
To prepare ahead of the freeze, Aqua Pennsylvania recommends customers stock basic supplies such as pipe insulation, heat tape, a portable space heater, and a hair dryer. Residents are also advised to locate and clearly mark their master water shutoff valve so water can be turned off quickly if a pipe bursts.
Additional preventative steps include inspecting outdoor meter pits to ensure lids are intact, shutting off and draining outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems, and sealing drafts in basements, crawl spaces, and other unheated areas by repairing broken windows and closing gaps.
During periods of freezing weather, customers are encouraged to wrap exposed pipes and indoor water meters with insulation or blankets, keep cabinet doors open where plumbing runs along exterior walls, and allow a very thin stream of water to run from at least one faucet — preferably the one farthest from the water meter. Aqua said the slight increase in water usage is minimal compared with the cost of repairing a ruptured pipe.
If pipes do freeze, the company advises thawing them gradually by opening a faucet and using a hair dryer or heat tape on the affected section. Open flames should never be used. If a pipe cannot be safely thawed, customers are urged to contact a licensed plumber.
Aqua Pennsylvania said taking these simple precautions now can help homeowners avoid expensive repairs, property damage, and the loss of water service as Winter Storm Fern bears down.
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