So your pipes froze because of the winter storm. Here’s what you need to do
The first winter storm of the year has hit North Texas with a predicted 1 to 3 inches of combined sleet and snow as well as “significant ice accumulations” and bitter cold wind chills as low as -12 on Sunday night.
Texans know the drill — leave your faucets dripping, keep under sink cabinets open, set your thermostat to stay above 60 — but for those who have never experienced a freeze, there’s always the chance that you may wake up to frozen pipes in your house.
If pipes freeze, they are at greater risk of bursting and costing you a pricey repair. It’s not an issue one can solve without a plumber.
Here’s how to avoid a costly accident, and what to do if it’s too late.
How to prevent your pipes from freezing
The Texas Department of Insurance suggests preparing days before snow. You will need to prepare both the inside and the outside of your home.
To prevent pipes from freezing:
- Wrap outdoor and indoor pipes in areas without heat.
- Open cabinets under sinks to allow your house to warm the pipes.
- Drip your faucets, so water can run through your pipes.
- If you think a pipe is frozen, turn off your water valve. Learn where your water shut off valve is now, not later. This will help with leaks and flooding for when the water eventually thaws.
- Wrap up and remove hoses and wrap outdoor pipes.
- Drain and turn off your sprinkler system.
- Turn off the water to your washing machine if it’s in an unheated area.
- If you leave your house before a freeze, turn off the water at the shutoff valve and leave your heat on to at least 60 degrees. Also ensure that your HVAC is working.
- Cover or remove AC window units.
- Seal any cracks and holes in pipes or outside walls and windows.
What to do if you think you have frozen pipes
If you believe your pipe is frozen, the first thing you should do is shut off your water valve and call a plumber. If a pipe is frozen, it can crack and then burst when thawed.
To locate your main water valve:
- Most water cut-off valves are located near water heaters or laundry rooms, an exterior wall near a faucet, underground in your yard, or possibly near a well, if you have one.
- If you have a gate valve (wheel shaped), you must turn it clockwise to shut off. If you have a ball valve (lever shaped), turn it perpendicular to the water line.
- If you cannot find your water valve, wait for the plumber or call the City of Fort Worth at 817-392-4477.
Winter storm resources
To see a list of Tarrant County school closures and weather updates, visit here.
To see a list of university closure updates, visit here.
To see current winter storm weather updates, visit here.
To see a list of Fort Worth winter storm grocery store hours, visit here.