What to do in a Winter Freeze

Freezing temperatures are not uncommon in Houston, TX and Dallas, TX - that's why it's important to prepare in advance. Temperatures that stay for several hours below 30 degrees can cause exterior pipes to freeze, and temperatures that stay for several hours in the lower 20's or below can potentially affect the interior pipes (if the house has no heat, such as if the power goes out). We've compiled the below information to help YOU prepare for any forecasted freezing temperatures. 

When pipes freeze, the water pressure can build and lead to the pipe bursting. This can cause significant flooding and damage throughout your home. You want to check all pipes, but especially those that are most exposed to the element, such as the pipes in the crawl spaces, attic and outer walls of the home. There are things you can do to prevent pipes freezing:

 

How to Deal with and prevent Frozen Pipes

• Disconnect and drain garden hoses.
• Cover outside faucets with insulating foam covers.
• Turn off water to outside faucets, if available, and open valves on faucets to allow them to drain.
• Turn off the sprinkler system and blow compressed air through the lines to drain them.
• Close or cover foundation vents under house and windows to basements.
• Close garage doors.
• Insulate exposed pipes (both hot and cold) under the house with foam pipe insulation.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks.
• Drip hot and cold faucets in the kitchen and bath. Drip single control faucets with lever set in the middle.
• Set ice maker to make ice if the water line to it runs under the house.
• Don’t forget to check on pipes to your washing machine in the laundry room
• Locate the water main cut-off valve, and have a cut-off key handy.
• Use a hairdryer, heat lamp, electric heat tape, or a portable space heater to thaw frozen pipes that have not burst.
• Keep the faucet open when thawing frozen pipes to allow water to begin flowing through it. You can also check out winter tips
• After the weather has warmed above freezing and any frozen pipes have thawed, turn off dripping faucets and monitor your water meter to check for unseen leaks.

Wooden Decks and Porches

Wood can become more vulnerable during the very cold weather. You want to try and keep excess snow and ice from building up. Simply brush off decks, porches and steps that are made of wood.

How to Stay Warm in Your Home

– Has your furnace inspected before cold weather arrives? Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks, install a clean air filter, and check the thermostat to see if it’s working properly.
– Inspect fireplaces, and chimneys before using, and have them cleaned if needed.
– Keep drapes and blinds closed, except when windows are in direct sunlight.
– Cover any window air conditioners units.
– Repair or replace weather stripping and thresholds around doors and windows.
– Run paddle ceiling fans on low in reverse (clockwise when looking up) to circulate warm air.

Helpful Videos/Links

The Importance of Renters Insurance

Tips For Preparing Your Home, Pets and Plants for Freezing Temperatures
Winterizing Your PVB Sprinkler System Backflow Freeze Prevention