The temperatures are hitting record highs this summer on the Gulf Coast. This heat can affect the pipes around your home, as well as the infrastructure of Ricewood Municipal Utility District. Below are some guidance and tips regarding checking for potential leaks, and who to contact in the event you identify a possible problem.
Expanding Pipes and Low Water Pressure
It’s not only cold weather that can affect your pipes and cause them to expand. Hot summer weather can make your pipes burst just like winter can! One sign that your pipes might be on the edge is a change in water pressure.
Shifting Foundations and Sidewalks
Did you know that hot weather can actually cause the ground to move? Shifting foundations and cracking ground can affect your home and your plumbing by putting serious strain on your pipes. They may even expand or contract. Heat can also expand the soil that your pipes sit in, in turn shifting the pipes, often causing them to burst.
Droughts can have the same effects, and summers in Texas are known for dry weather. Lack of water (or heavy rain after a dry spell) causes the soil to contract and sink, taking your pipes along for the ride.
Check your yard and home regularly for any signs of excess water.
Soft floors, warped cabinets, and washing machine hose ruptures are all signs of a leak. Also, make sure to monitor your water bill for any inconsistencies.
How Do I Know if the Leak is Mine, or the District’s?
Typically, leaks that occur inside the home or between the home and the water meter fall under the responsibility of the homeowner, while those leaks at the meter and to the street are the District’s. That said, if there is any doubt, contact the District operator, Inframark, first to come and verify the location of the leak, so they can advise if you will need to contact a plumber.
The Ricewood MUD website will be updated, as needed, with information regarding weather and storm warnings, flood risks, and any possible impacts to facilities or drainage as a result of severe weather. This will ensure that you have the most recent information as it relates specifically to Ricewood MUD.
Additionally, ensure that you have the most recent information as it relates to Ricewood MUD by signing up for the Ricewood MUD’s Resident Alert System, to receive communication through text and email updates.
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