Winter creates nightmare for NTUA crews

By Kathy Helms
Diné Bureau

FORT DEFIANCE — Since winter began, Navajo Tribal Utility Authority crews in Fort Defiance, Chinle and Shiprock have answered approximately 820 calls regarding waterline problems extending from frozen main lines to line breaks because pipes shifted under the pressure of snow or mud.

Harsh winter conditions continue to freeze or break main waterlines, forcing extended water outages throughout the NTUA service area, according to Deenise Becenti, NTUA spokeswoman.

Problems with main waterlines have caused extended outages this week in Rock Springs, China Springs, Yah-ta-hey and Twin Lakes areas. Kayenta, Red Mesa, Shiprock, Chinle and Tuba City districts also have had numerous reports of main line breaks.

“We understand the frustration, and our water crews are working hard around the clock to take care of the water outages,” Becenti said.

“The winter conditions are adding to the problem by slowing down repair time. Access roads to the waterline break locations are often muddy and impassable, keeping crews from transporting the necessary heavy equipment to the problem sites,” she said.

NTUA is encouraging residents to be prepared by having extra water on hand in the event of an outage, which can last from several hours to several days, depending on the extent of the trouble.

“We know that the outages are difficult to deal with, however, we ask for patience and understanding,” Becenti said.

“We would like customers to know that our crews throughout the service area are working continuously around the clock to fix the problems caused by inclement weather. We also have electric line crews and meter readers helping to address the trouble calls.”

Becenti said NTUA can only work on main waterlines, not individual water pipes running from the meter to the dwelling. The customer is responsible for maintenance where the water service line enters the homeowner’s or business owner’s property.

For waterline problems beyond the meter, customers should call a licensed plumber, she said. NTUA district and sub-offices have a list of licensed plumbers in regional areas.

NTUA suggests customers consider these tips to prevent frozen water pipes: slow drip indoor water faucets overnight, insulate water pipes, disconnect outdoor water hoses, and skirt mobile homes.

The utility also warns customers not to try to thaw out frozen pipes with an open flame or torch because it might case major damage. Instead, customers should call a licensed plumber for assistance.