Cold Weather Prep: How to Protect Your Home and Stay Comfortable

As winter temperatures approach Hammond, Covington, Independence, Lacombe, and the surrounding areas, it’s time to make sure your home’s plumbing, heating and whole home generator systems  are ready for the challenge. Freezing weather can cause significant damage if precautions aren’t taken, but with the right preparation, you can protect your home and maintain your comfort.

Here are essential tips from Foulks Southern Air & Plumbing to help you prepare your home for cold weather:

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are one of the most common problems during cold weather, but they’re also preventable:

• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to protect pipes in unheated areas like attics, garages, and crawl spaces.
• Let Faucets Drip: Allowing a slow drip from faucets can keep water moving and reduce the risk of freezing.
• Open Cabinet Doors: Let warm air circulate around pipes under sinks, especially those located along exterior walls.
• Seal Cracks and Gaps: Use caulk or spray foam to seal gaps around pipes that enter your home to keep cold air out.
• Know Your Shut-Off Valve: Locate your main water shut-off valve and ensure it works. Turning off the water quickly can minimize damage if a pipe bursts.

If you do have a plumbing emergency due to the cold weather, call Foulks immediately for plumbing repairs.

Prepare Your HVAC System

A well-maintained heating system is key to staying warm and comfortable:

• Schedule a Heating Tune-Up: Have Foulk’s technicians inspect and service your HVAC system to ensure it’s running efficiently.
• Replace Filters: Dirty filters can restrict airflow and overwork your system. Replace filters regularly for optimal performance.
• Seal Air Leaks: Check for drafts around windows, doors, and ductwork, and seal them to improve your system’s efficiency and keep the cold out.
• Test Your Thermostat: Make sure your thermostat is working correctly and set it to a consistent temperature to prevent strain on your system.

Protect Outdoor Fixtures

Don’t forget about your outdoor plumbing and fixtures, as they’re vulnerable to freezing:

• Disconnect Hoses: Remove garden hoses and store them indoors.
• Drain Outdoor Faucets: Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain them to prevent freezing.
• Cover Faucets: Use insulated faucet covers to add an extra layer of protection.
• Winterize Sprinkler Systems: Ensure your irrigation system is properly drained to avoid damage.

Keep Pets Safe

Cold weather affects pets, too. Follow these simple tips to keep your furry friends safe:

• Bring Pets Indoors: If temperatures drop below freezing, bring your pets inside to keep them warm.
• Provide Warm Bedding: Make sure your pets have a warm and comfortable place to sleep.
• Check Outdoor Water Bowls: Ensure water bowls don’t freeze and your pets have access to fresh water.

Whole-Home Generator Preparation

A properly functioning generator can provide peace of mind during power outages caused by freezing weather.

• Schedule a Maintenance Check: Test your generator and schedule a professional inspection to ensure it’s ready to handle the load.
• Stock Up on Fuel: Ensure your generator has an adequate fuel supply. Check your owner’s manual for proper storage and handling instructions.
• Inspect Connections: Make sure all connections and cables are secure and free from damage or corrosion.
• Review Usage Instructions: Familiarize yourself with your generator’s operation and safety guidelines to ensure you’re prepared for an outage.

Stay Ready for Emergencies

Foulks Southern Air & Plumbing crews are on call and ready to assist with any HVAC, plumbing or generator issues that arise during a cold weather emergency. Whether it’s a burst pipe or a malfunctioning heating system, we’re here to help.

Contact Foulk’s Southern Air & Plumbing

Don’t let freezing weather catch you unprepared. If you need assistance with your home’s systems, give Foulks Southern Air & Plumbing a call. Serving Hammond, Covington, Independence, Lacombe, and surrounding areas, our team is always ready to help. Call us at (985) 200-5442 or schedule an appointment online today!

By taking these steps, you can safeguard your home and ensure a warm, safe winter for your family and pets. Trust Foulks Southern Air & Plumbing to keep your home comfortable and protected all season long.