Effective prevention of frozen pipes and safe home heating starts before cold weather sets in.
INDIANAPOLIS – Citizens Energy Group advises customers to prepare their homes now ahead of wintry temperatures expected in the coming days. The simple steps listed below can help ensure that customers stay safe, warm, and connected to critical utility service. The natural gas and water service teams at Citizens Energy Group are well prepared to deliver these vital services for customers and respond to any issues that arise due to various weather scenarios.
More information is also available at the Citizens Energy Group website.
Safe Home-Heating
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Keep space heaters away from flammable items such as furniture and draperies. Avoid using fuel-burning space heaters indoors as they can create deadly carbon monoxide.
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Place a working smoke alarm on each level of the home and at least one carbon monoxide alarm within the house. Batteries should be checked each month.
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Never heat a home using a natural gas oven.
Preventing Frozen Pipes
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Leave a thin stream of water running from faucets when the temperature is below freezing.
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Insulate pipes that may be exposed to cold air, and/or open cabinet doors below sinks to let warm air from the home circulate around pipes.
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Ensure the lid of the water meter pit is tightly secured.
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For water meters located in a basement, ensure the area is heated. Check for broken windows, which may allow cold air inside.
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For water pipes in a garage, ensure the garage doors stay closed.
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Locate the water shut-off valve in case a pipe burst requires the water service to be quickly turned off. Shut-off valves may be in various places of the home, including the garage, basement, utility closet, or the main entry of the water line into the house.
Troubleshooting a "No Water" Scenario in Cold Temperatures
- If the system includes a water softener, place it on bypass and see if the water service is restored.
- Check exposed pipes or valves in the garage or basement.
- If pipes are frozen, faucets won’t flow and your toilets won’t refill after a flush.
- If pipes are frozen, a water line may appear to bulge or may be coated in frost.
Reacting to a Frozen Pipe
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Turn off the water at the shut-off valve.
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Open the faucet attached to the frozen pipe to allow water to flow through and relieve pressure on the pipe. Running water through the pipe can also help melt any remaining ice.
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Apply gradual heat to the section of frozen pipe until the water pressure is restored and the water freely flows. This can be done by wrapping the pipes in bath towels or using a space heater to heat up the area where the pipes are located. Never apply direct heat to the affected area.
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If a pipe is bulging or the location of the blockage is unknown, call a licensed plumber.
Managing Utility Bills this Home-Heating Season
Citizens has compiled information regarding multiple sources of financial assistance on its Assistance webpage for those who may have difficulty paying their utility bills. This information is translated into nine languages.
Citizens has flexible options for payment and can provide information about financial assistance. Citizens encourages customers to determine if they are eligible to receive assistance through the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) or the local Winter Assistance Program (WAF) available through the United Way of Central Indiana. Additional financial assistance may be available through Citizens Energy Group's own Warm Heart Warm Home Foundation.
Information on these programs and all financial assistance options are available on the Assistance webpage, or by calling (317) 924-3311.
About Citizens Energy Group
Citizens Energy Group provides safe and reliable utility services to about 900,000 people in the Indianapolis area. Citizens operates its utilities for the benefit of customers and the community.
Media Contact Information
Ben Easley
Phone: 317-519-1515
Email: media@citizensenergygroup.com