Water service freeze prevention during power outages

Kawartha Lakes – The Kawartha Lakes Water and Wastewater Division is reminding residents connected to a municipal drinking water system to take steps to prevent water service lines from freezing during power outages, especially when heat is unavailable and temperatures remain below freezing.

A loss of heat can significantly increase the risk of freezing in water service lines, which may result in service interruptions or damage to plumbing. To help reduce this risk, residents are encouraged to consider the following preventative measures:

• Shut off the water supply at the valve located before the water meter and drain all water lines by opening taps throughout the home; or

• Run a single cold-water tap with a steady stream of approximately 6 millimetres (¼ inch), about the thickness of a drinking straw, continuously day and night until heat is restored and temperatures rise above freezing.

If a water service line is suspected to be frozen, residents should avoid using open flames or high heat sources to thaw pipes, as this may cause damage or create a safety hazard.

More information on water service freeze prevention, including additional tips and guidance, is available on our Water Wastewater page.

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