The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Warning for the Dallas-Fort Worth area through the afternoon of Friday, January 10. The Dallas area is expected to dip into the low 20s in the evenings, with a chance of snow and sleet accumulation of less than half an inch.
While Texas is no stranger to winter freezes (ahem, the 2021 Great Texas Freeze), homes and businesses often lack the proper infrastructure to withstand bone-chilling temperatures. To help you prepare, here are some tips from Austin Water to protect your home and stay safe from the freeze.
Keep out cold air
If you’ve noticed drafts around your home, now is the time to fix them. Austin Water recommends repairing or sealing broken windows, doors and walls to keep your home warm and your heating system running efficiently. Even the smallest leaks can let in cold air and increase the risk of frozen pipes.
Protect pipes and water heaters
When exposed to extreme cold, water inside uninsulated pipes can freeze and expand, leading to cracks, bursts and costly water damage. To prevent this, you can take precautions by opening cabinets to allow your home’s heat to warm the pipes and letting your faucets drip overnight. If you have an exposed water heater, insulate it to avoid damage.
Maintain a warm temperature
If you’re heading out of town, don’t turn off your heat. Instead, set your thermostat to at least 65 degrees. Keeping your home a few degrees warmer can make all the difference in preventing frozen pipes and the headaches that come with water damage.