Before a freeze
Protect exposed pipes
Use foam or fiberglass insulation sleeves to keep exposed pipes safe.
Let faucets drip
Letting faucets drip slowly to keep water flowing through pipes is not ideal, but it can help.
Open cabinet doors
Leave cabinet doors open under the kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow warmer room air to circulate over the pipes.
Know your shutoff
Be sure you know where and how to shut off your water at the meter and be prepared to turn it off if your pipes start leaking.
If a pipe freezes or bursts
If a pipe bursts
If you suspect a leak, shut off the main water service to your home and contact a plumber to make the repairs.
Before you warm a frozen pipe
Keep the faucet open.
Warming the pipe
Use a heating pad, electric hair dryer, a portable space heater, or wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water.
When to call a plumber
Call a licensed plumber if you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not within reach, or if you can’t get the pipe to thaw.
- Make sure that electrical cords do not come into contact with water and do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame devices.
How often it freezes in San Antonio
| Weather station | SAN ANTONIO INTL AP, TX US (NOAA USW00012921) |
|---|---|
| Freeze risk | Typical first freeze Nov 28; last Feb 26; 14.0 nights at or below 32°F a year |
Who to call at the utility
| Utility | San Antonio Water System |
|---|---|
| Phone | 210-704-SAWS (7297) |
| What it's for | To report a leak that appears to come from the SAWS water or sewer system. |
| Hours | 24 hrs / 7 days a week |