The frigid weather has caused lots of headaches in South Jersey including pipes freezing and bursting especially in Ocean City.

There were many icy puddles and wet sidewalks in neighborhoods in Ocean City. According to NJ American Water Service workers have been out to repair the main breaks.

Here are some tips from NJ American Water to better prepare for the icy cold weather.

Before cold weather:

Make sure  you know where the main water shut-off valve is located  in your house.

Look for un-insulated pipes or pipes and wrap them with heat tape, pre-molded foam rubber sleeves or fiberglass insulation all available at your local hardware store.

Look for sources of cold air near water lines...Fix windows, insulating walls and close crawl spaces.

Drain all outdoor garden hoses and roll them up and store them inside to prevent cracking. Shut off indoor values for your outside faucets. Drain water from pipes.

Clean out gutters and downspouts.

When Temps Go Below Freezing:

Open cabinets to let warm air in your home to reach the kitchen or other sink pipes.

Let a small trickle of water run overnight to keep pipes from freezing.

If Pipes Freeze

Shut off the water immediately. Don’t try to thaw frozen pipes unless the water is shut off. Surround pipe with heat. Don't use a kerosene heater or fire

 

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