Neenah Water Utility issues freezing pipe prevention guide as deep freeze approaches
NEENAH, Wis. (WBAY) — As temperatures plummet over the coming days, Neenah Water Utility is urging residents to take immediate action to protect their water lines from freezing and potential bursting, warning that the cost of prevention is far less than costly repairs.
The utility has released a comprehensive list of preventative measures and emergency steps residents can take to safeguard their homes during the dangerous cold snap.
Prevention Steps for Winter Readiness
The water utility recommends maintaining basement temperatures above freezing at all times and insulating pipes and faucets in unheated areas. Homeowners should ensure garage doors remain closed if water supply lines are present and apply heat tape to pipes in crawl spaces and other vulnerable locations.
Additional precautions include sealing off access doors, air vents, and racks to maintain warmth. The utility also suggests opening cabinets and closets containing water lines to allow warm air circulation—though residents are reminded to move any harmful cleaners or chemicals out of children’s reach.
“While taking these steps may increase heating costs, it can help prevent a more costly repair due to a frozen or burst pipe,” Neenah Water Utility stated in the advisory.
The utility recommends that residents locate their water service shutoff valve before an emergency occurs, allowing for quick action if a leak develops. Additionally, letting cold water tap drip or run a thin stream from faucets served by exposed pipes can help prevent freezing, as running water through the pipe—even in small amounts—inhibits ice formation. The utility notes that additional water usage from this practice will not result in billing credits.
For those with empty or vacant properties, maintaining heat at a minimum of 55°F is essential. Residents who will be out of town are advised to have neighbors or relatives periodically check on their homes. Excessive frost or condensation on windows may signal a heating system failure and potential frozen or broken pipes.
What to Do If Pipes Freeze
If residents turn on a faucet and only a trickle emerges, a frozen pipe is likely the culprit. Pipes along exterior walls or at the point where water service enters through the foundation are common freezing locations.
The utility recommends keeping the faucet open while applying heat to the frozen section using an electric heating pad, hair dryer, portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or towels soaked in hot water. Heat should be applied continuously until full water pressure is restored.
Homeowners should never use a blowtorch, kerosene heater, propane heater, charcoal stove, or open flame device to thaw pipes, as these pose serious fire and safety hazards.
If the frozen area cannot be located, is inaccessible, or thawing attempts are unsuccessful, the utility advises calling a licensed plumber. Residents should also check all other faucets in their homes, as multiple pipes may freeze simultaneously.
As the bitter cold settles in, Neenah Water Utility emphasizes that preparation now can prevent emergency situations and expensive repairs in the days ahead.
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