Take steps to ensure your water meter is protected from cold weather

Have you checked on your water meter lately?

With freezing temperatures not far off, it’s a good time to ensure your meter is protected not just from cold temperatures, but also from the elements.

Remember that while Lehigh County Authority owns the meter, the water customer is responsible for protecting it. If the water meter is broken because of freezing or other damage, LCA will charge the customer for the meter’s replacement.

Most water meters and pipes are in basements, crawl spaces, and other unheated areas, where cold winter temperatures could cause them to freeze. Insulating your meter is a simple way to protect it. The easiest way to insulate a water meter is with a specially made cover. If you’re not sure what kind to purchase, check with a plumbing supplier.

Here are a few other ways to keep you water meter — and your house — warm this winter:

• Cold air can seep into the house through cracks in windows, walls and doors, and through spaces/gaps around them. Gaps can be filled with spray foam insulation or caulking. Repair or replace broken windows and doors.
• Install storm windows on any windows in the house that aren’t double-paned.
• Eliminate drafts from crawl spaces by sealing them off.
• Turn off the water to outside faucets (there should be shutoff valves inside the house).
• Never shut off the heat when you are away. Lower the thermostat instead — shutting off the heat can lead to frozen pipes.

 If a pipe becomes frozen, never use a torch to thaw it. Instead, heat the room or use a hair dryer. Keep in mind that frozen pipes can crack, so when they thaw out, they can cause a flood.

If you have any questions about how to properly care for your water meter and plumbing, or about your responsibility for them, don’t hesitate to contact us.