A reminder to people across Co. Limerick to help protect water supply during freezing weather

Information below is relevant until further updates are provided here or on our Supply and Service Updates section

With the cold snap expected to continue over the coming days, Uisce Éireann crews continue to work to maintain and restore water supplies across Limerick County. We would also like to remind customers that there are some simple steps they can take to protect against frozen pipes and bursts – and stay safe, and warm.

Normal water supply is expected to return to impacted customers in the county over the course of the day as power has been restored in a number of areas. Areas such as Carrigkerry may still be experiencing supply disruptions due to Met Éireann’s status orange weather warning. Our crews are continuing to work closely with ESB to restore normal operations at the water treatment plant as quickly and safely as possible.

Uisce Éireann is asking people to play their part in protecting household pipes in the cold weather. Operations Manager, Duane O’Brien said, “With temperatures dipping below zero it is very important to continue the regular maintenance of your property, protect outside taps and farm troughs, and check empty premises. It also a good idea to familiarise yourself with your own internal water system and particularly how to turn off your supply at the stopcock so that you can protect your property in the event of a burst pipe.”

“We are also appealing to customers to be mindful of their water usage and to conserve water where possible. We recommend that people don't run taps continually as this is not an effective way of preventing frozen pipes and can cause other problems such as frozen drains. It puts further pressure on the local water supply which is already challenged by the freezing conditions. Being mindful of water use at home, on farms and in businesses can make a big difference and alleviate the need for restrictions to supply.

Uisce Éireann recommends checking outside pipes that can become frozen and burst during periods of cold weather and, if possible, turn off water supply to these areas or to any unoccupied premises. Alternatively, if the water system is left operational, you may consider setting the heating to come on periodically at a lower temperature. This allows warm air to circulate, and will help prevent pipes and tanks from freezing in the cold weather.

To help people avoid issues like this and stay safe, warm and comfortable during the cold snap we have lots of helpful advice on the Winterproofing section of our website.

Uisce Éireann is encouraging people to report any leaks or bursts on the public water networks to our Customer Care Team on 1800 278 278. We’re available 24/7 and customers can also contact us on X @IWCare with any queries.

Uisce Éireann has launched a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at the text alerts page.