Photo collage containing images of Austin Water employees, construction workers, and water infrastructure including pipes and treatment facilities.

Austin Water Cold Weather Tips

As winter approaches, Austin Water encourages everyone to prepare for freezing temperatures. While Austin often enjoys mild winters, Winter Storm Uri in February 2021 showed that we must be ready for more severe and prolonged freezing weather.

Winter Weather Tip Sheet (PDF)

The tip sheet is also available in these languages:

Prepare for Freezing Weather

Locate your water shutoff — Make sure everyone in your home knows where the main water shutoff valve is and that it is clear of debris. In an emergency, first try to shut off the water using the property owner's shutoff valve, typically located on your side of the water meter at the meter box. For renters, check with your property manager. If you cannot find the valve or it is damaged, use the City shutoff valve in the meter box. You may need a water meter key, available at most hardware stores.

Keep out cold air — Close doors and windows tightly. Repair broken or drafty windows, doors and walls. Seal leaks in crawl spaces and basements. Winterize unheated areas and keep garage doors closed during freezing weather.

Insulate pipes and water heaters — Insulate pipes in unheated or drafty areas such as attics or garages. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for tank and tankless water heaters. Pipe insulation materials are available at hardware and plumbing supply stores.

Outside faucets — Turn off outside faucets and remove hoses. Insulate faucets with towels or a foam faucet cover. Turn off and drain automatic sprinkler systems.

Leaving town? — If you will be away during freezing temperatures, turn off your water at the meter and set your thermostat to 65 degrees or higher.

Emergency Supplies to Have on Hand

Water meter key, to access your meter box if needed
Insulation for indoor and outdoor pipes
Hose bib covers for outdoor faucets
Battery-powered radio and flashlight
At least 1 gallon of water per person per day for seven days

Note on My ATX Water meter box lids: The new smart meter box lids can be opened with a standard meter box lid key. Press down the spring mechanism before turning to open. Take care not to damage the wires connecting the lid to the meter inside the box.

During Freezing Weather (1–2 Days)

Let faucets drip at a trickle to keep water moving through pipes
Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to allow warm air to reach pipes
Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor faucets

Extended Freeze (More Than 2 Days)

Austin Water will provide guidance for protecting your pipes and our water system infrastructure during an extended freeze. Follow us for updates:

Thawing Pipes After a Freeze

If you have only a trickle of water or no water at all, you may have a frozen pipe or meter.

Step 1: Turn off the water at the shutoff valve to prevent flooding if a pipe has burst. Open a faucet near the frozen section to allow steam to escape as you apply heat.
Step 2: Apply gentle heat to the frozen section using a hair dryer, electric heating pad or warm towels. Never use an open flame. Start from the faucet end and work back toward the wall.
Step 3: Once water flows normally, check the pipe for cracks or leaks caused by freezing. If you find a leak, turn off the water at the shutoff valve immediately.

If these steps do not work, contact a licensed plumber or your property manager for assistance.