Why Winterize?
To prevent leaks! When water freezes, it expands, creating enough pressure to rupture metal piping.
If water is left within your plumbing or irrigation system in freezing conditions, they are susceptible to cracking or bursting. When this occurs, a leak is created.
If undetected, freeze-created leaks have the potential to cause catastrophic damage. Read on to learn the winterizing basics...
Step 1: Engage Stop & Waste Valve
Every property is required to have a functioning Stop & Waste valve. It is the only valve you can use to shut off the water to a property. These valves close (stop) the water line and drain (waste) standing water from it through a weephole at the bottom of the valve, effectively removing water and the possibility of ice formations from the line. Using this valve properly eliminates the risk of freeze ruptures!
Turning off water via the Stop & Waste Valve:
· Use a T-Bar to gently turn the valve clockwise until snug, usually about a quarter turn. T-Bars can be found at local hardware stores.
·If the valve is reluctant to turn, dripping cooking oil down the T-Bar often loosens the valve.
· If the valve turns more than a quarter turn, or doesn’t feel secure, be sure to call a professional as it may be time to repair or replace it. If the valve is not turned completely off or on, it may cause a leak.
· Tip: mark your stop and waste valve with a tall stake so it can be readily found under snow cover.
Turning water back on via the Stop & Waste Valve:
· Use a T-Bar to gently turn the valve counter-clockwise until it stops rotating. The sound of water rushing through pipes should be audible.
*Note: air may spurt out of plumbing fixtures upon resumption of water flow. This is normal and should not be of concern, as air fills the empty space within pipes when the Stop & Waste valve drains the water.
¼ turn clockwise to close and drain the Stop & Waste Valve.
Step 2: Maintain Temperatures & Insulate Properly
Of course, exposing pipes to sufficient heat will prevent them from freezing.
- Insulate water pipes including those under sinks, in attics, crawl spaces, or outside your house.
- If possible, leave your internal heat set at 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warmer indoor air circulate near the pipes.
Step 3: Drain Irrigation Systems
Irrigation systems are susceptible to freeze related leaks, too.
· Shut off and drain all outdoor irrigation lines. Irrigation is prohibited November 1 through April 1 annually.
· Detach and drain your garden hose. This prevents freezing water from creeping into the wall behind the spigot.
Irrigation system schematic.
Contact your water supplier for more information...
The City of Big Bear Lake, Department of Water & Power
The City of Big Bear Lake, Department of Water & Power
The City of Big Bear Lake, Department of Water & Power
