Preventing Frozen Pipes in the Houston Area: A Guide for Homeowners
The Dangers of Frozen Pipes
A picture is worth a thousand words. Here, a busted water pipe outside a home in the Houston area illustrates the devastating effects of freezing weather on plumbing lines. Temperatures in the Houston area are expected to drop into the 30s late Sunday, with overnight freezes projected for next week.
Protecting Your Home from the Cold
With a cold snap on the horizon, it’s crucial for homeowners to take proactive measures to safeguard their properties. According to Joe Bany, director of operations at John Moore Services, one of the key steps is to pay attention to any pipes that are exposed to the outside. "There are protective cases and covers that you can buy," he advises.
Cost-Effective Solutions
Purchasing items like hose bibs or insulation covers for your pipes can be both cost-effective and helpful when preparing for a temperature drop. These measures help prevent pipes from freezing, potentially saving homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs. During the 2021 winter freeze, Bany witnessed the costly price tag for homeowners who did not adequately prepare.
Case Study: The 2021 Winter Freeze
"It was not uncommon for us to go to a house where they had 16 to 17 different pipes broken in their attic," Bany said. "The damage was staggering, and the cost of repairs was significant."
Additional Tips and Precautions
- Ensure Proper Faucet Functionality: Another measure homeowners can take is ensuring their faucets are properly dripping. With water moving through the pipes, ice is less likely to form. "Using the plumbing system is incredibly valuable; you can drip several faucets so that the water is moving and that the water doesn’t freeze up," Bany said.
- Prepare for Travel: For homeowners who may be traveling out of town when it freezes, they might want to consider additional methods. "If you’re going to be gone for three or four days, you might want to take the preparation of turning off the water to your house and draining the system down, so it doesn’t give it the chance to freeze," Bany said.
- Long-Term Considerations: Long-term considerations for homeowners include inspecting the insulation in their attics or other areas where pipes are located. Proper insulation is essential for protecting homes and pipes from extreme temperatures over time, Bany said.
What to Expect from CenterPoint Energy
CenterPoint Energy, which distributes electricity to much of the Houston region, is making its own preparations for the approaching winter weather. Freezing temperatures last January left thousands of customers around Harris County without power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What can I do to prevent my pipes from freezing?
A: Pay attention to any exposed pipes and consider purchasing protective cases and covers. Ensure your faucets are properly dripping, and consider turning off the water supply if you’ll be away for an extended period.
Q: What can I do if my pipes freeze?
A: If your pipes freeze, turn off the main water supply and call a professional plumber to assess the damage. Be prepared for potential repairs and consider filing an insurance claim if necessary.
Conclusion
By taking proactive measures to protect your home and pipes, you can minimize the risk of costly repairs and ensure your property remains safe and secure. Remember to inspect your insulation, ensure proper faucet functionality, and consider turning off the water supply if you’ll be away for an extended period. Stay warm and safe this winter!
