Winter weather is officially here and no one wants to be caught unprepared. Here are some tips from Austin Water on how to best prepare yourself for freezing temperatures.
Locate Your Water Shut Off
Locate the water main shutoff valve and keep it clear of debris and obstacles at all times. For most homes, the property owner’s shutoff valve is on your side of the water meter at the meter box. For renters, please consult with your property manager.
If you cannot find your shutoff valve or if it is damaged, then you should be prepared to access the City shutoff valve in the meter box. You may need a water meter key to open the meter box, which can be purchased at most hardware stores.
Turn Your Indoor Faucets To Drip
Dripping your indoor faucets will prevent drastic temperatures from causing a busted or leaky pipe. Make sure to leave all faucets, both hot and cold, on a steady drip until the freeze has passed.
Weatherize Exposed Pipes and Water Heaters
Prepare to insulate pipes in unheated and drafty areas, such as an attic or garage. Also, check manufacturer recommendations for your tanked and tankless water heaters. Hardware and plumbing supply stores carry insulation to help keep pipes from freezing. Get all supplies now so you are ready to wrap pipes and water heaters when a winter storm is approaching.
Weatherize to Keep Out Cold Air
Make repairs to broken or drafty windows, doors, and walls. Seal all leaks in crawl spaces and basements. Winterize unheated spaces and be prepared to close garage doors for the duration of the freeze. Gather supplies to cover vents on your home’s foundation.
Outside Faucets
You should remember to turn off irrigation systems during the winter months to help conserve water. Prepare supplies to wrap outside faucets with towels or a Styrofoam insulator.
Gather Supplies to be Prepared
Having these supplies on hand will help you be prepared and avoid the rush at stores when the first winter storm of the season approaches.
- Water meter key - to access your meter box (if needed)
- Insulation for indoor and outdoor pipes and hot water heaters
- Hose bib covers for outdoor faucets
- Battery-powered radio and flashlight
- One gallon of water per person and pet per day for seven day
Don’t get stuck on the road without
- Cell phone and car charger
- Blanket, gloves, and hat - For heat, AAA recommends running the car for about 10 minutes every hour but keeping it off the rest of the time to avoid running out of gas. Make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow and ice when the car is running to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Water and snacks
- First aid kit
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Car emergency warning devices
- A basic set of tools
- Tarp and raincoat
- Jumper cables or a jump pack
- Shovel
- Traction aid (Salt, sand or non clumping cat litter.)
- Ice scraper and snow brush
