How to Prepare Your Southern Home for Freezing Temperatures

Freezing temperatures can catch homeowners in the South off guard, leading to damage to water lines, pipes, and even HVAC systems. A little preparation goes a long way in safeguarding your home and avoiding costly repairs. Here are essential tips to protect your home and pipes during a cold snap, plus a few additional steps to keep your home cozy and functional.

Tips to Avoid Frozen Pipes

Indoor Preparations

1. Locate Your Main Shut-Off Valve

   • Know where your main water shut-off valve is in case of an emergency. This is critical if a pipe bursts, as you can quickly stop the water flow to minimize damage.

2. Let Faucets Drip

   • Keep faucets running at a slow drip, using hot water if possible. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and a small drip can help relieve pressure in your pipes.

3. Open Cabinet Doors

   • Open cabinet doors under sinks and around appliances near exterior walls to allow warm air to circulate and reach uninsulated pipes.

4. Seal Gaps Around Pipes

   • Inspect areas where pipes enter your home and seal any gaps or cracks with caulk or expanding foam to keep cold air out.

5. Keep the Heat On

   • Maintain a consistent indoor temperature, even if you’re away. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F to ensure your home stays warm enough to prevent freezing.

Outdoor Preparations

1. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Disconnect Hoses

   • Remove garden hoses, drain outdoor faucets, and turn off water to exterior spigots if possible. This prevents water trapped in hoses or pipes from freezing and expanding.

2. Insulate Outdoor Fixtures

   • Wrap your backflow prevention device, outdoor faucets, and any exposed pipes with insulation or protective covers. Use pipe sleeves or even towels and duct tape in a pinch.

3. Adjust Sprinkler Timers

   • Turn off or adjust the timers on your landscaping sprinklers so they don’t run during freezing weather. This prevents icy patches and protects the system from damage.

4. Protect Tankless Water Heaters

   • For tankless water heaters mounted outside, insulate the water lines entering and exiting the unit. If temperatures drop severely, consider covering the unit itself with an insulated blanket or housing.

Additional Tips for Homeowners

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters

   • Clear your gutters of leaves and debris to prevent ice dams from forming. Ice dams can cause water to back up under your roof, leading to leaks and interior damage.

2. Check Your HVAC System

   • Make sure your heating system is functioning properly before the cold hits. Replace air filters and consider having your system inspected by a professional.

3. Cover Crawl Space Vents

   • If your home has crawl space vents, temporarily cover them to prevent freezing air from circulating under the house and cooling exposed pipes.

4. Install Pipe Heating Cables

   • For areas particularly prone to freezing, consider installing electric pipe heating cables. These cables provide warmth directly to pipes and can be especially useful for exposed areas or basements.

5. Prepare for Power Outages

   • Freezing weather can sometimes lead to power outages. Stock up on flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food. If you have a generator, ensure it’s ready to use and positioned in a well-ventilated area.

6. Inspect Doors and Windows

   • Check for drafts around doors and windows and seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulk. Not only does this help keep your home warm, but it also prevents cold air from reaching pipes located near exterior walls.

7. Consider Temporary Insulation

   • Use foam pipe insulation or even pool noodles to protect vulnerable pipes. If you’re short on materials, old towels and duct tape can work in a pinch.

Be Proactive and Stay Safe

When freezing temperatures are in the forecast, acting early can save you from significant damage and expensive repairs. By following these tips, you can protect your pipes, keep your home cozy, and ensure your family stays safe and warm.

Stay prepared, stay warm, and take comfort in knowing your home is ready to weather the cold!