MONTGOMERY – A steady flow of water through the pipes is an essential practice when temperatures drop below freezing, a rare event in the South but a nonetheless occasional occurrence, to keep pipes from bursting.
But, as always, the piper must be paid.
Due to excessive water demand experienced by many public water systems across the state, the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) is requesting that residents and businesses don’t forget to discontinue dripping faucets once temperatures are above freezing.
According to ADEM, water utilities across the state are struggling to keep up with increased consumer demand, exacerbated by leaks from frozen pipes as they thaw. ADEM adds that the public can help by checking for leaks inside and outside of their homes or businesses. If leaks are found, they should shut off the water supply until the leaks are repaired.
ADEM urges customers to contact their local water supplier if they have a major leak and are unable to shut off their water supply. This is particularly important for vacant buildings with water service that have not already been disconnected.
When very cold temperatures are predicted, ADEM recommends the use of insulated covers for outdoor faucets whenever possible as an alternative to dripping those faucets.
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