The Village Public Works Department would like to remind residents and commercial property owners that water lines may freeze due to extremely cold temperatures. We have already had several frozen water lines here in the ski valley; some have been due to heater failure, not enough heat, breakers tripped, etc.  New water service lines recently excavated could be subject to freezing due to the ground thermals being compromised.  It takes a full year for the ground to recuperate heat loss from excavations. 

If your establishment is subject to freezing then you should take appropriate measures to solve the issue, soon.  Dripping water at a steady rate can help but you will want to make sure your drainage/ sewer line is not blocked.  Heat tape and proper insulation are key components to avoid freezing.  We realize that these can be expensive options, but a water line bursting and flooding your home or establishment can be extremely costly.  Also, once your water line has frozen, the cost to thaw it can be rather high. 

As the old saying goes, “ an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”…….do not take that lightly!

                                                                      Public Works Director, Ray Keen