Feeling the cold? So is your water meter, so keep it cosy.

As winter sets in, it’s time to get ready for cold mornings and take some simple steps to keep your water flowing.  

Above-ground water meters and pipes can freeze in very cold temperatures. If your meter freezes you’ll be left without running water, or worse, with a broken meter or split pipes.  

Residents across north-west suburbs and surrounding towns, where temperatures can drop below zero degrees overnight, should prepare now to protect their meters.  

The secret is to keep your meter covered. That traps the air inside and stops the water from freezing, so cover it with a blanket, container or bucket.  

Cover any pipes above the ground - most hardware stores sell materials that work well as pipe insulation.  

Make sure anything you put on can be easily removed, so your meter can be read and maintained properly.  

Greater Western Water General Manager of Operations and Delivery Solutions Jodie Hallam said that if you wake up with a frozen meter, there is one thing to do. 

“Just wait. It thaws naturally as the temperature rises. This is the best way to avoid damaging anything,” she said. 

“If you can’t wait, pour lukewarm water over the frozen area. Don’t use hot or boiling water as that can damage the pipes.”  

If your water meter splits or breaks, call Greater Western Water on 13 44 99 to arrange a replacement. They will also replace any damaged pipes between the meter and the street.  

If pipes are damaged between your home and your meter, contact a licenced plumber to arrange a repair. 

To learn more, visit gww.com.au/frozenmeters