Texas does two extremes very well. Heat and Cold. The heat we expect. The cold still manages to catche people off guard despite the warnings.
Whether its Christmas 2022 or winters further down the road here are a few important reminders to help prevent a holiday disaster.
Prep and cover your outside pipes. You want to provide as much insulation as possible especially to the pipes/faucets facing the North. You can purchase pipe insulation from your local hardware store or worse case scenario use a pool noodle and wrap with a towel and/or blanket.
Be sure to turn off your automatic sprinkler systems, detach your hoses from outdoor spicket. If you have a outdoor fountain be sure to drain the water and turn your pumps off.
If you are in a home, know where your water main shut off valve is located and that you know how to turn off the water. If you are in a older home or pier and beam it’s not a bad idea to turn off the water at night or when its below 28°f as a preventative. You can fill a tub with water so you can still access water to flush the toilet when necessary. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth and gallon jugs of water for cooking.
If your in an apartment ask the property management team what they would like you to do and know the emergency numbers if you have a pipe bust.
Open up sink cabinet doors and drip your faucets. It wouldn’t hurt to occasionally run a space heater in the bathrooms to help circulate heat under the sink. Be sure to follow all manufacturer warnings and safety measures.
Use towles or blankets to place in drafty areas like around your windowsills and exterior door ways. Be sure to change them daily due to condensation. You don’t want a wet towel sitting against drywall or ontop of your flooring.
If you have to get out in the cold take a extra blanket and coat with you in the car. It is better to be overly cautious and prepared than up a creek without a paddle. Be safe!!
Call if you have any problems. We are here to help.
Kelsey 214-908-3655
