Water Supply Advice during thaw conditions
During the current cold spell, Kilkenny County Council, despite increased demand, has to date been able to maintain water supply in all schemes. However, with the onset of thaw conditions, leaking pipes, resulting in water losses will put additional stress on the systems.
Kilkenny County Council appeals to the public to assist with efforts to avoid water shortages.
The public are requested to:
1. Avoid leaving taps running at night.
2. Report any leaks discovered on public water mains.
3. In some cases, property holders may not even be aware of water pipes which have frozen and which may now be leaking. This is particularly possible where pipes are external, (eg; house connections or water trough connections) and in premises which have been vacant or unheated during the cold spell. Please check for leaking pipes at all such locations.
4. For those who have a water meter installed, please check your meter on a regular basis to ensure that no unusual consumption patterns exist.
Early discovery of a leaking pipe can result in substantial cost reductions for property holders, both in terms of reduced property damage and in the case of non domestic supplies, a reduction in water costs.
Any reduction in water losses at this critical time, will contribute to efforts to maintain supply to all customers. If all are vigilant, it will not be necessary to restrict water supplies. It is in everyone's interest to reduce water losses.
Advice to Property Holders who discover a Leak;
Should you discover a leak:
1. Immediately switch off water supply to property at stop tap.
2. Drain system by running taps.
3. Contact plumber.
4. Switch off central heating system and run down any other solid fuel heating source. Only if the plumber can confirm that the leak is in the water system and not the heating system should the heating system be turned back on.