Jack Frost is in South Texas

Last week we had a couple of nights below freezing temperature here in the Texas Hill Country.  And there was some scrambling around the house to get the pipes ready for the weather as well as some of our vacant listings.

Taking the advice of a plumber here are things that we all need to do for those occasional freezes.

Guess what his first statement was:  "Preparation is the key!"

Since we do live in South Texas & the Texas Hill Country and freezes are few and far between some of our pipes are more exposed. Plastic and copper pipe are both capable of freezing.  Be proactive and get out there and protect those pipes before that next freeze.

Pipes in attics, crawl spaces and outside walls are all vulnerable to freezing, especially if there are cracks or openings that allow cold outside air to flow across the pipes. 

WHEN IS IT COLD ENOUGH TO FREEZE?

Homeowners should be alert to the danger of freezing pipes.  In San Antonio, any time temperatures dip to 32° pipes may freeze - especially when wind chill is a factor.

A Stitch in Time Saves Nine or as the case may be a little forethought can save your from a flooded home!

• Know where the water cut-off valve is located in your home.
• Remove, drain and carefully store hoses used outdoors.
• Keep garage doors shut if any water lines are located inside
• Seal all openings where cold air can get at unprotected water pipes. 
• During freezing weather, leave cabinet doors open under kitchen or bathroom sinks if they are located near outside walls
• Let faucets drip slowly to keep water flowing through pipes that are vulnerable to freezing.
• Exterior pipes and hose bibbs (outdoor faucets) should be drained or enclosed in 2-inch insulation sleeves.
• When weather is very cold, keep thermostats at the same temperature day & night.  Lowered temperatures at night may contribute to colder attic temperatures, and thus, more vulnerable pipes.

OH! Dear!!!  The pipes are froze!

• Inside try using a portable hair dryer to blow warm air on the pipe,
• Keep the faucets open until the water starts flowing again to relieve pressure

If your water pipes have already burst, turn of the water at the main shut-off valve in the house; leave the water faucets turned on.  And call the Plumber :(