Though temperatures this fall and winter have been significantly above average, Texans know a cold spike is always lurking around the corner. When cold temperatures hit, it’s important to act and protect pipes and wells from freezing. A busted pipe can waste tens of thousands of gallons in a single home and, collectively, millions of gallons in the greater community.
There are many steps well owners, homeowners, and renters can take to prevent such damage and water loss.
Drain and detach garden hoses then cover the faucet with an outdoor foam cover
Foam faucet covers are a great option. They can be found at most hardware stores, are low cost, simple to install, and easy to store.
Drain irrigation systems and shut off watering cycles during freezing temperatures
To winterize your irrigation system start by shutting off the water supply to the system. Then, open all valves located at the end and low points of the piping. Once all water is drained from the system, close all valves.
Maintain a dripping faucet to allow water to circulate freely and constantly, preventing it from freezing
Water pipes are always full, which is why you get water instantly when you turn on a faucet. When all the faucets are closed and the water doesn’t move, it stagnates, which is more likely to freeze than running water. Dripping a faucet allows the water to flow just enough to prevent it from freezing in your pipes. For maximum effectiveness, make sure both the hot and cold lines are opened slightly since both are vulnerable.
Dripping faucets is usually necessary only during especially bitter cold spells.
Insulate outdoor pipes and wellheads
You can use items such as foam pipe sleeves, blankets, expanding spray foam, foam caulk rope, pipe rope, and more. It’s important to do this for pipes outside and also indoor pipes in exposed areas that aren’t well insulated.
Locate your water shut off valve in case of an emergency
Should a water line ever freeze and burst, you will need to shut off the home’s water supply immediately. Know where your property owner’s cut-off valve is located and how to use it. The valve typically is located adjacent to the water meter box under a 6″ metal lid. Apply oil such as WD-40 to the cut-off valve before operating to prevent the valve from breaking.
Check insulation around well houses and seal any obvious gaps
Ideally, any exposed components of your well system are sheltered. Replace any missing/damaged insulation and weather-stripping and seal any holes or cracks in your well house. If you don’t have a well house, you can use fake rocks or large trash cans and wrap the well head and pipes with insulation.
