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Now is the time to prepare homes for dropping temperatures. Residents should follow these preventive steps to protect their plumbing during freezing conditions.
Indoor Protection
- Wrap exposed pipes in unheated areas with foam insulation, towels, or pool noodles
- Cover outdoor faucets with Styrofoam covers or cloth
- Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to circulate warm air around pipes
- Remove garden hoses from outdoor faucets
- Set thermostats above 55°F
- In unheated garages, shut off water to washing machines
Outdoor Protection
- Cover foundation vents
- Disable irrigation systems
- Insulate backflow devices
- Protect pool equipment
- Locate your water cut-off valve and test it
- Inspect property twice daily for water issues
Emergency Responses
- If you discover leaks, immediately shut off the water at the property owner's cut-off valve
- Contact a licensed plumber for any plumbing issues
SOURCE: City of Corpus Christi, TX press release