Seminole County urges residents to winterize plumbing and irrigation before freezing temperatures

Seminole County Utilities issued cold-weather preparation guidance on Jan. 30 urging residents to protect outdoor plumbing and winterize irrigation systems as Central Florida faces potential freezing temperatures. The county warned that when overnight lows approach or fall below 32 degrees, unprotected plumbing can freeze and burst, leading to unexpected water damage and costly repairs.

The guidance outlines practical steps homeowners can take immediately. Seminole County Utilities advised residents to know how to shut off water: "Make sure you know where your home’s main water shut‑off valve is located so you can act quickly if a pipe bursts." Locating and being able to operate the main valve can limit damage and reduce emergency repair costs if a line fails.

Outdoor plumbing and hose connections are a primary concern. The county recommended that residents "wrap exposed pipes, outdoor spigots, and hose connections with insulation, towels, or covers to help keep them from freezing." Officials also noted that letting outdoor faucets run slowly can prevent standing water from freezing: "Letting an outdoor faucet drip slightly can also help keep water moving through the line. Collected water can be reused for plants or other household needs."

Irrigation systems require specific steps before a freeze. Seminole County Utilities instructed homeowners to "turn off irrigation at the controller and drain any remaining water from the system. Keep it off until temperatures return to normal." Leaving controllers active or water in lines risks damage to valves, pipes, and sprinkler heads.

The advisory is aimed at limiting disruption across neighborhoods as much as protecting individual properties. "Sharing these tips with neighbors and family can help prevent plumbing emergencies across the community," the county said, noting that community awareness reduces the likelihood of multiple simultaneous emergency calls that can strain local contractors and municipal services.

For residents seeking more information, Seminole County Utilities can be reached at 407-665-2110. General county inquiries may be directed to the main Seminole County line at 407-665-0000. County offices are located at 1101 E. 1st St., Sanford, FL 32771, with business hours Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Acting now—insulating exposed lines, knowing the shut-off valve, letting faucets drip, and draining irrigation—can save homeowners from the immediate inconvenience and cost of burst pipes. Seminole County Utilities published the guidance on Jan. 30 and encourages residents to prepare their homes until temperatures return to normal.