Core Insights - Pennsylvania American Water is advising customers to take precautions to protect their pipes from freezing during sub-zero temperatures, emphasizing the importance of preparation and regular checks to avoid costly repairs and ensure safety [1][2]. Group 1: Customer Preparation Tips - Customers should locate their main water shut-off valve and test it to ensure it functions properly, as this is crucial during emergencies [4]. - It is recommended to check and drain sprinkler or irrigation systems to prevent freezing [4]. - To eliminate cold air sources near water lines, customers should insulate areas prone to freezing and fix drafty windows and doors [4]. - Exposed pipes should be wrapped with insulation or heat tape, and cabinet doors should be opened to allow warmer air to circulate [4]. - Allowing a small trickle of water to run through pipes can help prevent freezing, as the cost of water is typically lower than repair costs [4]. Group 2: Thawing Frozen Pipes - If pipes freeze, customers should shut off the main water valve before attempting to thaw them [4]. - Thawing should be done by warming the air around the pipe using a hair dryer or space heater, avoiding open flames [4]. - After thawing, water should be turned back on slowly, and pipes should be checked for cracks or leaks [4]. Group 3: Company Overview - American Water is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., serving over 14 million people across 14 states and 18 military installations [5]. - Pennsylvania American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in Pennsylvania, providing services to approximately 2.4 million people with a dedicated workforce of 1,200 employees [7].

Core Insights - Iowa American Water emphasizes the importance of preparing home plumbing and water meters for subzero temperatures to prevent frozen pipes and costly repairs [1][2] Group 1: Company Overview - American Water is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, serving over 14 million people across 14 states and 18 military installations [5] - Iowa American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in Iowa, providing services to approximately 227,000 people [7] Group 2: Winter Preparation Tips - Customers are advised to locate and test their main water shut-off valve to ensure it functions properly in case of emergencies [4] - It is recommended to eliminate sources of cold air near water lines and insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing [4] - Keeping water moving through the pipes by allowing a small trickle can help avoid freezing [4] - If pipes freeze, customers should shut off the water immediately and thaw the pipes by warming the air around them [4]

Core Insights - Missouri American Water emphasizes the importance of preparing homes and businesses for winter to prevent frozen pipes and costly repairs [1][2] Preparation Tips - Customers are advised to locate their main shut-off valve, insulate exposed pipes, and monitor for potential freezing to ensure reliable water service throughout winter [2][3] - It is recommended to eliminate sources of cold air near water lines by checking for pipes in areas prone to freezing and fixing drafty windows [3][4] Pipe Protection Strategies - Insulating exposed pipes with materials like heat tape or even fabric can help protect them from freezing [3] - Keeping water moving through the pipes by allowing a small trickle can prevent freezing, as the cost of water is typically lower than repair costs [5] Emergency Preparedness - Customers should know how to shut off their main water valve and test its functionality to ensure it works properly in emergencies [4] - A freeze alarm is suggested to alert homeowners if indoor temperatures drop below 45 degrees [5] Company Overview - American Water is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., serving over 14 million people across 14 states [6] - Missouri American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in Missouri, providing services to approximately 1.6 million people [8]