2006-12-31 03:18:18 · 4 answers · asked by Clarkie 6 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Weather
End-of-line valves for Fire Hydrants, and also the valves controlling water mains and feeder pipes, are kept from freezing [in northern climes] by placing the valve deep underground, below the "freeze line".
The familiar pentagonal head atop a fire hydrant connects by a long rod to the valve far underground. Even then, if a fire hydrant is used in very cold weather, it may freeze up entirely if not cleared of water after turning it off.
2006-12-31 03:24:36 · answer #1 · answered by wunhunglow41 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Actually, a hydrant is only an avenue for getting water to a particular system. The water comes from below the ground, usually about 6 feet or more. The water lines are shut off at the connection below the surface, the hydrant is only used for hooking up to hoses and the water does not stay above ground in the hydrant itself. That is why they don't freeze in our northern climates.
2006-12-31 23:38:25 · answer #2 · answered by campfire_buddy 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the shut off valve is back in side the wall so there is no water in the out side part of it to freeze
2006-12-31 13:25:52 · answer #3 · answered by hill bill y 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
let the water flow through, but not out, them.
2006-12-31 11:20:29 · answer #4 · answered by scraps 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋