What is what to do when water is shut off?

When your water is shut off, here's a breakdown of what to do:

• Stay Calm and Investigate: First, don't panic. Try to determine why the water is off. Is it just in your house or is it affecting the whole neighborhood?

  • Check with Neighbors: Ask your neighbors if they are also experiencing a water%20outage. This can help determine if the problem is localized to your property or a wider issue.

• Identify the Cause: There are several reasons for a water shut-off.

  • Scheduled Maintenance: The water company may have scheduled maintenance or repairs in your area. Check their website or social media for announcements.
  • Emergency Repairs: A burst pipe or other emergency may require a sudden shut-off. The water company should notify affected residents as soon as possible.
  • Unpaid Bill: If you haven't paid your water bill, the company may have shut off your service. Contact them immediately to resolve the issue.
  • Internal Plumbing Problem: The issue might be within your home. Check for leaks, dripping faucets, or running toilets. You may need to call a plumber.

• Contact the Water Company: If you can't determine the cause yourself, call your local water%20company. They can provide information about the outage and estimated restoration time.

• Prepare for the Outage: While the water is off:

  • Conserve Water: Avoid using water fixtures like toilets and washing machines.
  • Store Water: If you have advance warning, fill containers with water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
  • Turn Off Water-Using Appliances: Turn off dishwashers, washing machines, and ice makers to prevent damage when the water returns.
  • Locate Your Main Shut-Off Valve: Knowing the location of your main shut-off valve is crucial. In case of a burst pipe, you can quickly shut off the water yourself.

• After Water is Restored:

  • Flush Pipes: Once the water is back on, flush your pipes by running cold water from all faucets for a few minutes. This will remove any air or sediment that may have accumulated.
  • Check for Leaks: Carefully inspect your plumbing fixtures and pipes for any leaks that may have occurred during the outage.
  • Boil Water Advisory: If the water company issues a boil water advisory, follow their instructions carefully. Boil water for drinking, cooking, and brushing your teeth.