Preparing for Winter

Weather forecasting calls for a good winter this year. Do not be caught by surprise when sub-freezing temperatures strike the City of Santa Fe.  A lengthy cold snap of temperatures in the teens or 20s can cause pipes to freeze and burst pipes. Winterizing your home, business, and/or irrigation system is an important consideration for property owners and residents of Santa Fe. Saving water is always in season and should be a part of your regular winterizing routine this fall to help reduce your utility bill and protect our precious natural resource. As we head into cooler weather, remember your outdoor landscaping needs less water so it’s best to turn off all irrigation systems by early November.

To avoid frozen pipes and costly repairs, the City suggests following these precautions:

  • Turn of your irrigation controller
  • Close the main shut off valve
  • Drain the pipes
  • Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses
  • Insulate above-ground pipes
  • Install a freeze sensor

Finally, to really keep track of your water usage sign up for EyeOnWater, an exclusive benefit for city utility customers. You can either download the mobile app or use a laptop/desktop to monitor your water use and set up leaks alert. EyeOnWater recognizes continuous flow, which is a strong indicator that you might have a leak. It’s free, easy, and can save you money on your bill and this technology will help you learn how and where you can save more water.