North Texas Braces for Bitter Cold: What You Need to Know
As a chilly front sweeps through North Texas, a few lingering snow flurries are expected to continue into Sunday evening, making the need for winter preparedness all the more pressing. By Tuesday, we anticipate hitting temperatures above freezing, but until then, residents face bitter and potentially deadly cold, with record lows projected. Tonight’s forecast is a chilly 9 degrees, poised to break existing records. With treacherous road conditions compounding the anxiety of winter weather, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your home, your pipes, and even your furry friends. Below are essential winterizing tips to keep you safe and warm during this cold snap.
Winterizing Your Home
To ensure warmth retention in the house, it’s vital to start with the basics. First, check the weatherstripping on your doors and windows. A good seal keeps warm air inside and allows the cold air to stay outside. Older windows may have seals that can crack and need replacement, so be proactive. The ideal time for such maintenance is typically spring or fall, as some repairs require specific temperature conditions to cure properly.
Additionally, inspect your gutters. Blocked gutters can cause water to back up, potentially leading to leaks and other issues. Clear debris to ensure water flows freely to the downspout. The Texas Department of Insurance also emphasizes trimming trees away from structures and checking attic insulation to prevent added strain on your heating system.
Protecting Your Pipes
Frozen pipes can cause immense damage, so it’s essential to know how to protect them. Most North Texans are aware that insulating outdoor faucets is vital, but during prolonged cold spells, consider letting inside faucets located against exterior walls drip overnight to prevent freezing. The consistent drip may be annoying; placing a towel in the sink can catch the drops silently.
If you’re heading out of town, the Texas Department of Public Safety advises leaving cabinet doors open to allow warm air circulation around pipes. And don’t forget to insulate any exposed pipes in attics or crawl spaces. Be sure to disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets, as a simple foam faucet cover can do wonders in protecting against freezing temperatures. Should you suspect a pipe has frozen, keep the faucet open to allow melting water to escape. Familiarize yourself with your main water valve’s location (and how to turn it off) to act quickly in case of a burst pipe.
Bring in Your Pets
Pets can be just as susceptible to the cold as humans. The SPCA of Texas stresses that if you find yourself feeling chilly outside, your pets likely feel it too. Bringing pets indoors can help protect them from conditions that lead to hypothermia or pneumonia. For outdoor animals, ensure their shelters are dry, well-insulated, and protected against the elements.
Turn Off Your Sprinkler System
Turning off your irrigation system can prevent water from freezing on roadways, which poses dangers for vehicles. It also protects your system from potential breaks. The city of Fort Worth advises that timers and back-flow devices be switched off (even if equipped with freeze sensors), and the main line should be drained. Insulating any above-ground pipes is also essential.
Protecting Your Plants
For garden lovers, winter can be especially worrisome. Potted perennial plants should be moved inside, while those that can’t be brought in require protective covering. A few days before a freeze, the Dallas Arboretum recommends watering the soil gently while keeping the foliage dry to help insulate roots. Instead of plastic, use frost cloths to trap heat effectively.
HVAC Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your HVAC system can prevent costly failures. Change or clean your air filters every three months to ensure optimal airflow. Additionally, inspect ductwork for holes that could allow air to escape. If your HVAC system is located in your attic, keep an eye out for any unwanted visitors like rodents that might nest there, potentially interfering with your system.
Swimming Pool Precautions
Even if your pool equipment is equipped with freeze protectors, daily inspections are crucial during cold weather. Make sure your pump is operational and circulating water to prevent pipe bursts. Some pool owners take the extra step of draining their equipment during colder months to mitigate the risk of frozen pipes.
Stock Up on Batteries
Winter weather can lead to power outages, so it’s smart to have fresh batteries on hand for flashlights and emergency devices. If you haven’t changed the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors recently, now is a perfect opportunity to do so.
Winter Weather Fast Facts
In North Texas, the average date for the first freeze occurs on November 22, with the earliest record dating back to October 22, 1898. From 1991 to 2020, the region experienced an average of 29 freeze days each winter, most commonly in January, followed closely by December and February. Staying informed can better prepare you for these seasonal fluctuations.
With temperatures plummeting and winter weather gripping North Texas, it’s essential to be proactive. By following these winterizing tips and precautions, you’ll significantly reduce the risks associated with icy conditions, ensuring a safer and warmer home during this chilling season.