Operations & Maintenance - Freezing Pipes

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Take Protective Measures:

In frigid temperatures, the best thing that you can do to prevent your pipes from freezing is to take protective measures. Here are some tips on how to save yourself a trip from the plumber:

• Cover exterior house vents.
• Unhook hoses and hose bibs.
• Wrap or cover outside hose bibs/pipes. You can purchase covers at most home supply stores.
• Insulate your water heater, if it is in the garage or an unheated part of the house.
• Keep a steady stream of water running from your faucets to prevent water from freezing in pipes.

Pipes Already Frozen?

If you suspect that your pipes have frozen, as you have no water, here are some steps to take:

• Call Public Works at 360.753.8333.  Let us know you suspect your pipes are frozen. Staff will check the water meter to ensure it is not frozen as well they come out.
• We Will Trun Your Water Off. It is important to turn off your water BEFORE your pipes thaw. Do not attempt to turn off your water meter yourself.  You can damage the meter and then be responsible for damages and needed repairs. 
• Find the Leak(s). Check your exposed pipes for leaks/cracks before thawing begins.
• Thaw Your Pipes. After your water is turned off, open cabinets under the sink to allow the heat of the house in. This will help thaw the pipes.
• Fix the Leak. Check the yellow pages for a qualified plumber.
• Call Us When Pipes Are Repaired. We will come back out, free of charge, to turn your water back on. We will also verify that you no longer have a leak.

Freezing Temperatures May Affect Garbage, Organics and Recycle Carts:

• The combination of freezing weather and moisture in Organics carts (as well as Recycle and Garbage carts), can cause materials to freeze to the containers, which results in carts not emptying completely. To avoid this, keep your carts in your garage, when possible, and attempt to break any frozen items loose before your pick up.

Contacting Public Works:

• Physical Address: 924 7th Ave. SE, Suite A
• Mailing Address: PO Box 1967, Olympia, WA 98507
• Hours: M- F from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Download printer-friendly (PDF) directions to our office.
• 360.753.8588, (TTY) 360.753.8270
• publicworks@ci.olympia.wa.us