CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KWWL) — The City of Cedar Rapids Water division wants to remind customers that below-zero temperatures can freeze pipes and meters.

Here are some steps to consider to protect your pipes from freezing:

Open cabinet doors under sinks to help circulate warm air near pipes.

Eliminate drafts from rooms containing your meter or pipes. Seal cracks from cold air and cover drafty windows with plastic or insulin.

Insulate water pipes that may be vulnerable to cold air drafts with wrap that contains fiberglass or other known insulating materials.

Cover you meter with a blanket or rug to protect it.

Always keep your home’s temperature above 55 degrees, even if you are not home for an extended period.

Leave a thin stream of water running from the tap furthest from your water meter when temperatures drop below 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

Protect outdoor faucets/hose bibs by disconnecting hoses and turning off any indoor shut-off valves to those faucets.

Ensure your water meter can be turned off in case of emergency. Turn you shut-off valve on and off a few times to make sure it is in working order. If the valve is inoperable, contact a plumber to make repairs.



The Cedar Rapids Water division says that even when protected by an interior heating source, meters and pipes may freeze when exposed to cold air.