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NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – New Rochelle residents are being warned by the water company to make sure that their meters and pipes are not in danger of freezing during the current cold snap.
“Homeowners are responsible for preventing damage to the water meter and pipes inside their property line from damage caused by frost and external causes,” United Water said in a statement.
“They are also responsible for any costs that might be incurred to repair such damage."
Frank Campisi of Bruni and Campisi plumbing, heating and air conditioning said residents should also have insulation on the outside part of their walls to keep pipes warm.
He also suggests residents keep doors to rooms and cabinets open so warm air can surround the area.
Campisis said he had seen an increase in calls because of the cold weather, which is expected to continue into Sunday.
The National Weather Service is calling for temperatures to remain below freezing until hitting a high of 33 degrees Sunday.
“When the weather is as cold as it is especially for an extended period of time, calls increase,” he said.
United Water issued these tips to help reduce the risks to pipes and meters.
- Disconnect and drain the garden hose connection to prevent frozen pipes,
- Close all outside vents, crawl spaces and doors so cold air doesn’t seep inside.
- Fix broken windows and seal cracks in the walls.
- Wrap the meter and water lines in commercial insulation. Pipes subject to cold or freezing can be wrapped in heat tape which is available at hardware stores.
- Make sure the shutoff valves on either side of the water meter are working properly. Place a tag on the main shutoff valve and make sure everyone in the house knows where it is and how to operate it during an emergency.
- Check the water meter periodically to see if there is damage. Contact United Water if you detect a crack.
If pipes do freeze, blockages should be cleared as soon as possible. Residents should also call a licensed plumber.
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