Cold Weather Tips

WINTER CONSERVATION TIPS

  • Set water heater to 120 degrees
  • Turn down your thermostat and bundle up
  • Set your ceiling fan blades to spin clockwise
  • Check and repair air leaks in your external doors, windows, and attic
  • Close doors and vents in unused rooms to avoid heating unused areas
  • If possible, manage your heater with a smart thermostat
  • Locate your hand cut-off valve, usually located approximately two feet from your water meter, in case you need to cut off your water during a freeze event

You can monitor your energy and water use with your LUS online account.

FREEZING WEATHER TIPS

Outdoors:

  • Wrap exposed pipes outside and underneath your home (if above ground) with insulation
  • Cover outdoor faucets
  • Disconnect and drain any outside water hoses
  • If you will be away from home, it is suggested to turn off water at the hand cut-off valve, which is normally located 2 feet from your water meter, and drain pipes
  • If you have a pool, make sure your main pool pump is running 24/7 to prevent pipes from freezing

Indoors:

  • Protect water pipes that run through the attic
  • Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet floors under sinks, especially if along an outside wall, to allow heat to circulate around uninsulated pipes
  • Maintain a home temperature of no lower than 55 degrees
  • LUS asks that you not drip/run your faucets as it can affect water pressure system wide

After the Freeze:

  • Do not attempt to thaw pipes with a torch or flame
  • Thaw pipes with heat from a hair dryer or hot water
  • Inspect pipes after thawing for any leaks
  • Be on the lookout for water in unexpected areas, as this may indicate a leak or busted pipe
  • Monitor your home’s usage after the freeze for the next five (5) days with your LUS online account

You can access your LUS online account at www.LUS.org/MyAccount

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