Village Shares Tips For Frozen Pipes Amid Cold Temps In Northbrook

NORTHBROOK, IL — The Village of Northbrook, and its public works department, have been busy this winter assisting residents amid continued extremely cold temperatures. Calling it "crucial," the Village is asking residents to protect water meters and pipes because when they're frozen, they can lead to leaks and bursts.

"Any water meters or pipes that are not insulated or otherwise protected from the cold have the potential to freeze," officials said in a post on the Village's website.

If faucets are not working, residents can check if the issue is at the meter or in a single pipe. According to the DPW, if there's no water at all, the issue is likely a frozen meter, while if one or more faucets don't work, it's probably a frozen pipe. For residents with frozen meters, call the DPW at 847-272-4711, or after hours, reach out to the police department at 847-564-2060.

In addition, if a pipe is frozen and leaking, it's best to shut off the water and contact a plumber. If not damaged, thaw the pipe by turning on the faucet and wrapping the frozen section with hot towels or using a hair dryer. The DPW said frozen pipes may not show damage until thawing, "so keep an eye on the line."

The Village also shared the following tips to safeguard plumbing during freezing cold temperatures:

• Keep warm air circulating by opening cabinet doors where plumbing is present, especially along exterior walls.
• Seal windows and doors tightly to eliminate cold drafts near water pipes.
• If you have glass blocks around meters, use old blankets for temporary insulation.
• Keep your garage door closed to protect plumbing in the garage.
• Concerned about specific pipes? Leave a faucet on at a low rate to keep water moving — moving water is less likely to freeze.