WATER SAFETY TIPS

BROKEN WATERLINES & HOT WATER TIPS
‍Broken water lines can cause unsafe conditions. If a pipe bursts inside your home, be aware of standing water that can short circuit an appliance, giving you an electrical shock.

A break in a large water main outside may cause unsafe walking or driving conditions. Report breaks immediately by calling us at 865-982-3560.

Hot water can also be a safety hazard. Young children and senior citizens are especially susceptible to scalding. Setting your water heater thermostat to 120 degrees can help prevent scalding. The minimum recommended temperature for a dishwasher; however, is 130 degrees. You can still set the water heater to 120 if you have a dishwasher with a water-heat option. Regardless of the water heater setting, you may want to install widely available anti-scald devices to help prevent injury. Check the temperature in the bathtub by moving your hand around in the water before placing a child in the tub. Never leave a child alone in the tub for any reason.
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WINTER WEATHER
‍When cooler weather sets in, it is important to take a few preventative measures to protect your home. It doesn’t take much to get ready for Old Man Winter, a single weekend is all you need to properly winterize your home.

We created a checklist to help ensure you and your home are prepared, Click Here to view.

Also listed below are some tips for preventing and dealing with frozen water lines.

HELPFUL TIPS TO PREVENT WATER LINES FROM FREEZING
Don’t wait! Imagine the panic you would feel if water started pouring through the house from a broken pipe. Locate the main shut-off valve, mark it, and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is.

Seal any air drafts around fixtures.

Insulate pipes in unheated areas.

When freezing weather is in the forecast, turn off the water to outside spigots and drain all water from the line.

Drain in-ground lawn irrigation systems. (Check manufacturer instructions for best method.)

Report broken or missing meter lids to South Blount County Utility District to help prevent frozen meters.

Set the thermostat to no less than 55° F or simply shut off the main valve to protect pipes during extended absences from home in the winter.      

IF YOUR WATER LINES FREEZE:
‍Turn on the closest cold water faucet to relieve pressure from expanding ice in pipes. DO NOT attempt using a blow torch or hairdryer to thaw frozen pipes since intense heat can cause them to crack or burst.