Tips for your pipes during this deep freeze

Philadelphia Water Department sent this bulletin at 01/29/2026 03:01 PM EST

Not getting water at your tap? It may be frozen pipes.

Learn what to do if you don't have running water during this extreme cold weather.

Due to the current long stretch of below-freezing temperatures, you may have no water at your tap because of frozen pipes.

This is a problem that Philadelphia Water Department crews can't fix, because those icy pipes belong to the homeowner — not the city.

However, there are ways to resolve your plumbing issues due to cold weather.

Steps to take if you don't have water in extreme cold:

First, check with a neighbor to see if they’re experiencing the same issue.

If they have a loss of water too, it may be the result of a main break. (See the end of this email bulletin for more water main break information.)

But if your neighbors have running water, it’s likely your pipes have frozen. Here's what to do:

Do not apply direct heat to the pipes. If your pipes freeze, use a space heater or hair dryer to heat the area around your meter and pipes.
Make sure the faucet is turned on so melting water can drip out.
After your pipes have thawed, look to see if your pipes are cracked or damaged, and make sure to take necessary precautions to prevent freezing from happening again.
Inspect your water meter for damage throughout the winter. If you notice a leaking meter, let us know by calling (215) 685-6300.
If you can't thaw your pipes, a licensed plumber might be able to help - just be sure to ask if they offer pipe-thawing services before requesting an appointment! (Find a licensed plumber.)

If your pipe is damaged:

Shut off the water at the house-side water supply valve near your water meter.
If the break is in a hot water pipe, close the valve on top of the water heater.
Call a licensed and registered plumber to repair the broken pipe.

Your shut-off valves and water meter are usually in the basement near the street wall.

Explore How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Extra: Check out this video for winter weather plumbing tips.

Water Main Breaks

The extreme cold is impacting water mains too, and our crews are working around the clock to address each main break. If you see a leak on your street, report it right away by calling (215) 685-6300. (Learn what to expect after a water main break.)

If you reported a leak on your street, remove any valuables from your basement floor and consider moving your car until the leak is stopped.

Please share this with your neighbors!

About the Philadelphia Water Department (PWD): The Philadelphia Water Department supplies drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater services to its customers. Learn more at water.phila.gov.