City of Columbia officials urge homeowners to protect water pipes from freezing

City of Columbia officials are urging residents to protect their water pipes as cold weather continues in the city.

They suggested residents to leave a faucet running. The water moves heat from the ground to the pipes to keep it from freezing up.

In addition, the city said to keep the thermostat at a set temperatures and if you are traveling or away to set it no lower than 60 degrees.

City crews responded to at least nine water main breaks on Tuesday afternoon and officials said the breaks can be expensive.

City officials also ask homeowners to check the lid for your water meter is sealed. Sometimes the lid can be dislodged by traffic from lawn mowers that could allow cold air direct contact with the meter.

Tiger Carpet Care and Water Restoration project manager Brian Vincent says one of the biggest things is keeping your heat on and that now is a time to disconnect water hoses from outside.

“It’s sometimes even good to turn off the water. Drain your lines outside first and then turn your water back on after the drainage and just not use them after the winter,” Vincent said.

If your water main breaks, experts say to find your main water shut off and turn it off. Even if you do not know the main cause which can further additional damage.