6 Tips to Protect Your Home During A Freeze

In Texas, we are not accustomed to severe winter temperatures like most of the country. Typically, our “winter chill” falls between 30 and 60 degrees, rarely staying below freezing for long periods of time. Although, that is not to say it can’t or won’t happen. Many of you remember the freeze in mid-February last year that persisted for a week. While those just north of us may be used to snow and ice this time of year, Texas was not. Our roads lack snow plows, our homes lack proper insulation, and many of us were left with no power. Work and school were canceled, the power was out, and for some, their homes were flooding due to burst pipes. This year, it’s imperative that Texans are ready for any weather conditions that might come our way and that includes weatherproofing our homes as best we can. Below are some tips to help keep your home safe during the next freeze: 

1. Guard Exterior Water Pipes: To keep exterior pipes from freezing, shut off the water supply and drain the pipes that connect outside. Additionally, insulate the hose bibs to help prevent freezing. 

• Add Insulation: Adding additional insulation to your home in the exterior walls, basement, attic, or around the pipes will help your home retain more heat and prevent pipes from freezing. 

• Locate your Water Meter: In the unfortunate event that your home does flood, it is important you have located the water meter to shut off the water to your home. The water meter can be found near the street and can be controlled by a meter key. 

• Let Faucets Drip: When the temperature is below freezing, allow your faucets to drip to ensure the water continues to flow through the pipes. This will help ensure they do not freeze between uses. 

• Seal Any Holes or Cracks: Small openings or cracks that lead to the exterior of your home can become an issue when extreme temperatures occur. Preserve the heat in your home by sealing any areas that the cold air could enter. 

• Keep Spare Batteries: Whether you lose power, or your thermostat runs out of battery, it’s essential to keep a stock of batteries on hand. You don’t want to be in a situation of not having a backup set.