Cold Weather Update: What you can do right now

2.1.26 - We’re already experiencing below-freezing temperatures across Central Florida, and we know many customers are worried about outdoor pipes and water systems or have already experienced issues.

Here’s what makes sense right now, based on what our crews are seeing in the field.

Protecting Backflow Preventers

Backflow preventers are one of the most common failure points during freezes, and we are responding to many calls related to these devices. Please see below for an image of a backflow preventer. 

If your backflow preventer is NOT leaking, wrap it completely, not just the top.

Use what you have on hand:

• Towels or cloths directly around the pipe
• Insulation or thick fabric over that
• A plastic bag or weatherproof cover on the outside
• Secure it loosely with tape or zip ties. The goal is to hold warmth in, not seal it tight.
• If the materials are dry, you’re doing it right. Wet materials can make freezing worse.

If your backflow preventer IS leaking

Some backflow preventers have a shutoff valve just before the device. If you see a valve, slowly turn it off to stop the water.

Once the water is off, wrap and insulate the device as best you can.

If you do not see a shutoff valve, do not force anything or dig around the pipe. Wrapping it is still helpful.

If water is actively running or flooding, that’s when you should call us.

Irrigation systems

If you have an irrigation system, please turn it off. Shut off the irrigation water supply if you can safely access it. Don't forget to wrap any exposed valves or backflow devices connected to your irrigation system.

What NOT to do: Do not try to drain or blow out irrigation lines tonight if they’re frozen. Doing this can cause additional damage.

Pools

Keep pool pumps running so supply lines do not freeze.

Inside your home

Open cabinets under sinks, especially those on exterior walls. This will help any warmth inside your home reach indoor pipes. Keep indoor temperatures steady overnight while being mindful of any additional pressures the region's power grid is facing.

Run indoor faucets at a steady pace to keep your inside water pipes flowing.

If you experience a burst pipe, shut off your water and contact Toho so we can determine whether the issue is on our system or yours. Customers are responsible for handling anything on their side.

After things thaw

Many freeze-related issues don’t show up right away.

Frozen pipes can hold together while frozen and begin leaking only after temperatures rise, and water starts flowing again. Once things warm up, check outdoor pipes, hose bibs, backflow preventers, and irrigation connections for leaks or pooling water.

A note on response and call volume

Our call center is experiencing extremely high call volumes, and our field crews are already out across our service area responding to urgent issues.

We ask customers to please call only for true water or sewer emergencies, so we can get help where it’s most needed. Thank you for your patience. Our team is working around the clock to support the community.

We’re here for you.