As we enter the winter season and start to feel the days get colder, there are a few things you can do to make sure your water – both hot and cold – will keep flowing all winter long.
Protecting your water meter
If you're feeling the cold, chances are your meter is too. The water inside meters and pipes that sit above the ground can freeze when exposed to very cold temperatures, which can lead to no running water, damaged pipes and expensive repairs.
To prevent your water meter freezing during frosty weather, cover your meter with something that traps the air around it, like a blanket, container or bucket.
Our General Manager for Service Delivery Jodie Hallam says, "No one wants to wake up on a cold morning unable to take a shower, flush the toilet, wash your hands or do the dishes."
"Following this simple step will ensure you'll always have running water and avoid repair bills for damaged pipes."
Make sure the items can be easily removed in case our meter readers or field crews have to access the meter – we always need a 10cm space around the meter.
What to do if your pipes freeze
If your meter or pipes freeze, it's best to wait for the temperature to rise a little to naturally thaw them. If you can't wait, pour lukewarm water over the frozen area but never use hot or boiling water as this can damage your pipes.
If your water meter splits or breaks, call us on 13 44 99 to arrange a replacement. We are also responsible for repairing or replacing any damaged pipes between the meter and the street.
You are responsible for maintaining the pipes between your home and your meter. If these pipes are damaged, turn off your main water supply to prevent further damage and contact a licensed plumber to arrange a repair.
Protecting your solar hot water panels
If you have solar hot water panels, these too can freeze up when exposed to winter frost, which can cause them to expand and crack. These cracks can result in leaks which could result in a higher water bill.
To prevent solar hot water panels freezing, we recommend servicing your panels every three to five years, ensuring a frost protection valve is installed and checking the solar controller for error codes and warning lights.
For more information about protecting your pipes and panels, visit prevent frozen pipes.
Making every drop count is important all year round
Saving water isn't just for summer. Parts of our service region have experienced a very dry summer and autumn, and a dry winter is also forecast in some areas including Romsey, Lancefield and Woodend.
That's why it's never been more important to make every drop count.
Here's a few handy tips to reduce your water usage at home:
Run your washing machine on a full load only
Collect water by washing your fruit and veggies in a tub in the sink, then use it to water your plants
Use a shower timer to keep your showers to 4 minutes
