Protect Your Home: A Guide to Freezing Temperatures in Texas

As a polar vortex sweeps through Texas, temperatures are set to plunge below freezing. While the cold might be fleeting, the damage it can cause to homes is anything but temporary. Preparing now can save you from costly repairs and headaches down the line. Here’s how to protect your home and prevent pipes from freezing.

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Preventing Frozen Pipes

When freeze warnings hit, it’s time to act. Pipes are particularly vulnerable in Southern states, where insulation is often minimal. Here’s what you can do:

• Keep Your Home Warm: Set your thermostat to at least 60°F and open cabinets or vanities to allow warm air to reach exposed pipes in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Drip Faucets: Let the faucet farthest from your main water valve drip steadily to keep water moving. You don’t need to drip every faucet—one or two should suffice.
• Protect Outdoor Spigots: Drain outdoor faucets and cover them before temperatures dip below freezing. Faucet covers are inexpensive and easy to install but can make a significant difference.

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High-Risk Pipes

Certain pipes are more likely to freeze, including:

• Outdoor lines like hose bibs and sprinkler systems. Ensure they’re drained and shut off for the season.
• Pipes in unheated areas, such as attics, basements, garages, and crawl spaces.
• Lines running along exterior walls with little or no insulation. Adding pipe insulation or heating tape can provide additional protection.

What to Do If a Pipe Freezes

If you discover a frozen pipe, quick action can prevent further damage:

1. Shut Off the Water: Turn off your home’s main water valve to stop water flow and reduce the risk of a burst pipe.
2. Thaw Safely: Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels to gently thaw the frozen section. Never use an open flame—it’s dangerous and can damage your pipes.
3. Open the Faucet: Allow water to flow through the pipe as it thaws to relieve pressure and help the ice melt.

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Locate Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve

Knowing where your main water shut-off valve is before an emergency can save precious time. These are typically found in the basement, garage, or in a metal box near the street.

Don’t let freezing temperatures catch you off guard. A little preparation now can make all the difference in protecting your home during the cold season.