Well folks, it's happening again and if 2021 taught us anything, we need to be more ready than ever. So let's talk hard freeze prep.
From what we are hearing from the weather service, this time it should not be a "wet" hard freeze event.
Although this is not an extensive and totally comprehensive list of what to do, it is a basic outline of that needs to be taken care of so you incur the least amount of direct impact to your home and property.
So here are some things you can do to be ready.
The First Step
Get out there and turn off the water to the exterior faucets. When the temperature drops, it can cause problems for outdoor plumbing. Turn off the water supply to the garden and wrap the hose bibs with an outside garden faucet sock, or old towels or rags to prevent freezing. More than anything, don't leave pipes exposed.
Next, Add Insulation
You can never go wrong with MORE insulation. If you have some, add more insulation. Pipes that haven't been adequately insulated may freeze. If you want to save money on heating and cooling, you should insulate your attic, exterior walls, and any crawl spaces you have.
Turn On and Drip Your Faucets
If you have any indoor faucets that are located on exterior walls that aren't properly insulated, you should let them drip slowly whenever the temperature drops below freezing. Be sure to crack open the hot and cold water lines a just a little bit. In an abundance of caution, you should open the cupboards and let the heat from the house warm the pipes in your kitchen and bathrooms.
Know How to Turn It All Off
Study How to Turn Off the Water Supply in Your Home
If you ever need to turn off your water supply at the meter, you'll be prepared by having a meter key or a crescent wrench handy.
Please remember to close the garage door when you're not using it.
Keep the garage door closed as much as possible. Your hot water heater and any other pipes in that area will be safer from the cold if you do this.
If you have time, remember to clean your gutters (let's be honest, you should be doing this regularly anyway). When gutters are clogged, ice is more likely to form on the roof and water to degrade and enter the roof structure. Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule throughout the season is essential.
Let's Talk Fans
Turn the Blades Counterclockwise on the Ceiling Fans. If you want to bring warm air back down into your home, try turning your ceiling fan on its side. Especially if you just had a renovation to your kitchen or bathrooms, keep them safe by moving around the warm air. Changing the direction of the fan typically involves flipping a small switch. In the colder months, this is a fantastic method for cutting costs.
So You Want to Use the Fireplace
First and foremost, check for obstructions. Cleaning and inspecting your fireplace once every year or two is recommended. Creosote buildup in the chimney or house could start a fire if you ignore your fireplace. Any structural or operational problems with your fireplace can be uncovered during an inspection.
So You Plan to Be Away from Home
If you plan to be gone during this time, make your own list and check it twice against this one. The temperature in your home should be kept above freezing, and you should contact a neighbor to let them know you'll be away. You may even want to provide a key for them to come into your home and check on things. Often what happens on the inside during a freeze can not be seen from the outside.
If you have any questions, you can also call QCB Custom Homes and we are happy to assist with any question you may have. 281.330.5725
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