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Water Conservation Urged for WSSC Customers Amidst Cold Weather Stress
Published: 2026/02/01 13:09:35
Millions of Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) customers in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties, Maryland, are being asked to voluntarily limit their water usage through the weekend as sustained cold temperatures place significant stress on the region’s water infrastructure. This request, initially issued on Tuesday, remains in effect as the frigid weather persists.
Understanding the Current Situation
The WSSC’s call for conservation stems from a surge in water main breaks and leaks – 33 reported incidents as of January 31, 2026 – directly attributed to the freezing temperatures. When water freezes inside pipes, it expands, creating immense pressure that can cause them to rupture. While the water remains safe to drink and there is currently no boil water advisory in place for the 1.9 million affected customers, WSSC officials emphasize that adhering to conservation guidelines can definitely help prevent the need for such an advisory [1].
How to Conserve Water Now
WSSC is requesting customers to prioritize essential water use and implement the following measures:
- Minimize Overall Usage: Take shorter showers and turn off faucets entirely when not actively in use.
- Reduce Toilet Flushes: Avoid flushing toilets after every use.
- Optimize Appliance Use: Run washing machines and dishwashers only when thay are fully loaded.
These simple steps will help preserve water for critical needs, including system storage and maintaining adequate water pressure for fire protection while crews work to repair the damaged infrastructure.
Preventing Frozen Pipes
Beyond conservation, taking preventative measures to protect pipes from freezing is crucial. Allowing faucets to drip, even slightly, during extremely cold weather can keep water