Protect Pipes and Hoses

There are several steps you can take to protect the pipes and hoses in your home and landscape from cold weather:

• Disconnect and drain garden hoses when they are not being used.
• Insulate your irrigation backflow device when draping a towel over it and cover with a bucket or other protective cover that touches the ground. Never obstruct or seal the ports of a backflow protection device.
• Wrap exposed irrigation pipes with pipe insulation, insulated "faucet socks," an old towel or duct tape.
• Set heat to 55 degrees when you're away to protect pipes and houseplants.
• Turn off the water valves to your washing machine to avoid flooding from burst hoses.
• Don't leave interior or exterior pipes dripping. Valley temperatures generally don't drop low enough for a long enough period of time to warrant it.
• Locate your water shut-off valve and learn how to turn off water at its source, so you can ward off damage from leaks or burst lines. Know how to turn off your irrigation backflow device as well.

Pool Tips

Reduce risks to your pool and/or spa from freezing conditions by following some of these tips:

• During freezing temperatures run the filtration pump and jet pumps continuously. 
• Adjust pool and spa jets upwards to reduce surface freezing.
• Maintain proper pool water level at all times.
• Have all air and water leaks repaired.
• Remove and store all pool accessories in a clean, dry area.
• You should also consult with your pool maintenance company to see about winterizing your pool.

With lowering temperatures, the risk of dangerous ice formation increases. You can reduce the risk of ice formations by:

• Verifying your landscape irrigation is not creating any water runoff onto a sidewalk or street.
• Addressing landscape irrigation leaks as soon as possible.

If ice forms on your sidewalk, remove the ice to prevent your liability for injuries (HMC 11.02.030).