CONTACT: Constance Arter United Water Pennsylvania (717) 561-1103, Extension 612 constance.arter@unitedwater.com

United Water Offers Suggestions for Frozen Pipes

HARRISBURG, PA – January 24, 2003 – United Water Pennsylvania would like to offer a few suggestions to customers who may be experiencing lost of water service due to frozen pipes. During periods of extreme cold weather, pipes located on the outside walls are vulnerable and can easily freeze and break. Customers are responsible for the protection of these pipes and should take necessary steps to prevent being left without water due to frozen pipes. United Water Pennsylvania suggests customers wrap meters with foam insulation or heat tape to prevent freezing. Crawl spaces and basements are generally areas that are not heated so pipes in these locations should also be wrapped with insulation and in basement bathrooms vanity doors should be kept open so warm air can reach the pipes. Homeowners should check to be sure their water meter’s shut-off valve is operable, in the event it would have to be shut off.

“Frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs, but taking a few precautionary measures during extreme temperatures can protect property and guarantee continuous service. We do not want our customers to go without water one single day,” said John Hollenbach, General Manager of United Water Pennsylvania. “Temperatures have been reaching into the single digits for about a week and some nights they have been below zero.”

In the event pipes freeze a little troubleshooting to determine the location of the problem is advised. Do not use an open flame to thaw a pipe, if necessary contact a plumber. For more tips on how to prevent frozen water pipes, please visit our website at www.unitedwater.com/uwpa and follow the links to customer information or go directly to the following URL: http://www.unitedwater.com/UWPA/customer.htm. Customers who have experienced frozen pipes in the past should take extra precautions so as not to risk the inconvenience.