Texas faces an arctic cold front bringing wintry precipitation and dangerously low temperatures to parts of the state. This weekend, many will feel the season’s coldest temperatures yet.
Amid warnings of “hazardous cold” conditions from the National Weather Service, it’s crucial for Texans to take precautions for what could be multiple days of subfreezing temperatures. This kind of lingering cold can cause major damage to homes, leading to headaches for homeowners and thousands of dollars in repairs.
Here’s a guide for protecting your home in freezing temperatures and keeping pipes from bursting.
As the arctic cold front brings plunging temperatures across Texas this weekend, freeze warnings are likely. While it’s always essential to check your local weather forecast during winter, it will be extremely important to do so during the winter storm. When a freeze warning is issued, it’s time to protect your faucets.
In Southern states, many people take precautions ahead of the first cold front since outdoor faucets are typically unused until spring. However, if you haven’t yet prepared — or if you still need to use your faucets regularly — here’s some advice on how to protect them.
Before the temperature drops below 32 degrees, outdoor water spigots attached to homes should be opened to allow to drain water out. Faucet covers should also be put on.
If you’re concerned about further damage or unsure how to handle the situation, it’s best to call a local plumber to safely resolve the issue. However, you can relieve some of the pressure on your own.
Here’s a step-by-step process outlined by the Red Cross:
The main water shut-off valve is usually located where the water supply enters your home—commonly in the basement, garage or a concrete metal box near the street.
Familiarize yourself with its location before temperatures drop below freezing to act quickly in case of a burst pipe.