Frozen Pipes

Understanding your water line service

A water service line is the pipe that runs underground from the water main at the street into your home where it connects to the water meter. North Perth is responsible for the part of the water service that runs from the municipal water main to the shut off valve (curb stop). The homeowner is responsible for the part of the water service that runs from the shut off valve (curb stop) into the home.

Causes of frozen pipes or water service lines

• Indoor plumbing: inadequate heat inside the home or building. For example, if a building temperature falls below freezing during an extended blackout, or plumbing is located in an area of the home with insufficient heat, such as a crawlspace or against an outside wall with inadequate insulation.
• Underground water service lines: an extended period of extreme cold temperature can push the frost line deeper than normal, causing some service lines to freeze.

How can I reduce the risk of frozen water pipes?

• When temperatures are below freezing, you can leave a cold water tap running at a steady stream of about 6 mm or 1/4 inch (approximate thickness of a drinking straw). Ensure the drain is kept clear of debris to prevent overflowing or flooding.
  • Please note only those directed to run a tap by the Municipality will be compensated for increased use. Review North Perth's Frozen Water Services Policy for more information.
• Leave cupboard doors under your kitchen and bathroom sink open if piping is located next to exterior walls. Please take care to remove household cleaners and other items that could harm children or pets while cupboard doors are open.
• Do not turn your furnace below 13 degrees Celsius (55 degrees Fahrenheit) at night or when the house is vacant.
• Shut off and drain pipes leading to outside taps.
• Wrap foam pipe insulation around pipes most prone to freezing. For example, pipes near outside walls, crawlspaces, attics, and garages.
• Seal air leaks in your home and garage, especially in areas where pipes are located.
• If you are away, have someone check your home regularly. If you are leaving your property vacant for the winter, you are advised to have your water services temporarily shut off.

What happens if my pipes freeze?

• Homeowners are responsible for maintaining and replacing water pipes inside their homes or businesses and from their home or business to the property line. This includes responsibility for corrective actions regarding frozen water services.
• If freezing is confirmed to be private plumbing, the homeowner is responsible to initiate corrective actions. We recommend you call a plumber.
  • Do not use a torch to thaw a frozen pipe. Too much heat too fast can cause the ice to fracture and rupture the pipe, causing flooding.
• If you are unsure where the problem is occurring, and it is likely a frozen service issue, contact the Public Works department.
  • Regular business hours (Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) call 519-292-2067
  • After hours emergency call our answering service 519-291-2940

Temporary water lines

If frozen service is confirmed, a temporary water line may be required.

Temporary water lines are set up using municipally approved water lines. These run from a neighbour's house to yours, usually between outdoor taps. These lines provide a temporary, running water supply until a frozen pipe thaws.

If the Municipality connects you to a temporary water line from a neighbour, you must leave one tap running constantly as instructed. Run a drinking straw wide stream around the clock to ensure your temporary line does not freeze.

Water meter billing

North Perth adjusts consumption charges to account for extra water usage if the Municipality notifies the property owner by letter to run a tap to prevent municipal water service pipe from freezing.

The property owner is responsible for full consumption charges if:

• You ran a tap to prevent freezing or prevent re-freezing after thawing without direction from the Municipality to do so.
• If the Municipality has advised the property owner to let their water run and the property owner chooses not to do so, the property owner will be responsible for covering all costs incurred should the water freeze, even if the frozen section occurs in pipes that are on Municipal property.

Please review the Municipality of North Perth's Frozen Water Services Policy for detailed information on water meter billing.