What is a thaw wire?

A thaw wire is a wire that runs from the water main, parallel to your service line, and comes up to the ground surface at the keybox. This wire is installed specifically for thawing frozen service lines - a common issue in Alaska’s harsh winter conditions.

Key points about thaw wires:

• The thaw wire is installed for your convenience as the property owner
• It allows electrical current to be run through the line to melt ice blockages
• The wire comes up at the keybox location, making it accessible when needed
• You’re responsible for knowing where your keybox and thaw wire are located
• Damage to the thaw wire caused by your negligence may result in repair charges

If your service line freezes, you’re responsible for thawing it (unless the freezing was caused by a utility system malfunction). The thaw wire makes this process possible, but you should contact the utility for assistance rather than attempting to thaw lines yourself without proper equipment and knowledge.

Tariff Reference: Section W-002 (Definitions - THAW WIRE), Section W-022-I, Section W-022-K