NE Florida News

Ahead of this weekend's freezing temperatures, Assistant Water Utilities Director Scott Schultz would like to give residents the following tips to prevent water freezing in pipes and outdoor water tanks and irrigation systems. 

This weekends freeze is beyond what we normally experience.  In order to protect your water system, the following suggestions are for your consideration.  

• Outside spigots should be more than dripping, they should have a constant flow.  When you open them, the warm water heats up the cold seals and the water may stop as this happens.  Start the flow of water, then return a few minutes later to make sure it is still running constantly, not dripping.
• Irrigation systems should be protected.  If you have a pump rather than relying on the city's system pressure, turn the irrigation off, close the valves and drain the pump.  Consult your irrigation contractor for additional information.
• Pool pumping / filter systems are vulnerable.  Probably the best protection is to turn the pumps on when freezing conditions occur.  Contact your pool system contractor for additional information.
• Don't forget docks or water in outside buildings with no heating system.
• Don't forget RV's or campers.  Not only can piping freeze, holding tanks and water heater systems are also vulnerable.  The best way to avoid issues is to run the RV's heater system on a low setting.  Consult your RV maintenance contractor for additional information.