Protect your water pipes and hoses during cold weather.

During the winter months, temperatures can fall below freezing and could potentially cause water pipes to burst. Here are some steps you can take to winterize water pipes and hoses for cold weather:

• • Disconnect and drain garden hoses when they are not being used.
  • Wrap exposed irrigation pipes with pipe insulation.
  • Insulate your irrigation backflow device by draping a towel over it and covering it with a bucket or other protective cover that touches the ground. You can also spray foam on the underneath side of the irrigation box lid, then place the lid back on the box.
  • Set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees when you're away to protect indoor pipes and houseplants. Do not turn your heat off completely.

In the case of a broken pipe, locate your water shut-off valve. Follow the instructions below to turn off your water, so you can minimize damage from leaks or burst water lines. You can also call McMinnville Water & Light for a water shut-off.

Turning off water at the main water meter:

• This will shut off water both inside and outside your home.
• Locate the main water meter. Most meters can be found in the greenway in front of the sidewalk or just behind the sidewalk in front of your home.
• Lift the lid. You will see a meter with a handle or dial, one on each side of the meter. Turn the handle on the “house” side of your meter. This should shut off the water completely. If there is no handle on the “house” side of the meter, but there is one on the “street” side of your meter, you can use that handle also. If you don’t see any handle, call McMinnville Water & Light for a water shut-off. 

It is the homeowner’s responsibility for making repairs to burst water pipes, irrigation lines or backflow devices. After you have made the necessary repairs, reverse the steps above to restore water service.