As North Texans still grapple with the impacts of the recent deep freeze, plumbers are issuing urgent advisories to homeowners and renters alike: Take action now to avert potentially costly damages as another bout of sub-freezing temperatures looms. The recent arctic conditions have already inflicted significant harm to properties across the region, with experts cautioning that the respite from the cold won't last, as reported by FOX 4 News.
With three more nights of frigid weather in the forecast, plumbers emphasize avoiding quick fixes, such as wrapping hose bibs with towels, which can inadvertently cause more harm than good. As Colten Brown from Baker Brothers explained, "If water touches it, it’s gonna freeze, and it’s gonna make that colder. And then, boom. It’s done." The advice—letting faucets drip and covering outdoor spigots with Styrofoam—aims to prevent the kind of distressing scenario where a homeowner might face $20,000 to $30,000 in water damage, as per FOX 4 News.
Not just homeowners, but also tenants face disruptions, illustrated by the evacuation of an apartment complex in Las Colinas due to a burst pipe. Brown further advised residents to open cabinet doors and to familiarize themselves with water shut-off valves. These steps are crucial whether you're home or away during the cold spell.
Independent of the advice from plumbers, CBS News Texas conferred with Willard Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical, and found that insulating pipes with thick foam is an essential preventative measure. Cliff Walker, Assistant Regional Manager, advised the public in a CBS News Texas interview: "Make sure that it comes on, make sure that it's functioning properly because what we don’t want is the first time it gets turned on is Sunday when we're in those below freezing temperatures." Homeowners should also take measures to ensure their heating systems are primed for the cold ahead of the blast.
Further to protecting pipes, the Texas Department of Insurance reminds residents to understand their insurance coverages. Some home and renters policies may not cover damages from frozen pipes if preventative actions are not taken. CBS News Texas reported that homeowners should maintain a consistent thermostat setting to prevent pipes from freezing and to keep energy bills manageable. As for those who find their pipes frozen, Thomas Evans, Plumbing Manager for Dallas Plumbing, said, "Once a pipe freezes, we can't do anything about it. So the best that you can do is prevent it."
