Arctic Chill and Polar Vortex. These are the words that forecasters are using to describe the weather over the next 48 hours for much of the United States including North Carolina. With temperatures dropping throughout the day today and expected lows tonight of 9° and a possible windchill of -5°, it is important for us all to make sure our family, pets, and loved ones are prepared for the cold. If you have to get out in the cold tomorrow, make sure you are bundled up with heavy coats, hats, and gloves. If you are out and about tomorrow, go by or call and check on your elderly loved ones and neighbors to make sure they are warm enough.
It is also important to make sure your home is prepared for the freezing temperatures. Freezing pipes are a main concern when temperatures drop below 20°. Newer constructed homes have plumbing in the attic and may not be properly insulated. Pipes in crawlspaces are vulnerable to freezing when there are cracks or openings that allow outside cold air to flow across the pipes. You can prevent frozen pipes. Take a few minutes today to check to see if your pipes are insulated and not exposed to the cold flowing air. Take the necessary precautions…open seal or caulk any cracks in adjacent outside walls; keep cabinet doors open to keep warm air circulating around pipes under your sinks; let a faucet drip to minimize the excess water pressure that causes pipes to burst. If you are scheduled to be out of town during the cold spell, consider draining your water system by shutting off the main valve and turn on every water fixture until the water stops running.
If you suspect you have a frozen pipe, call your plumber. If a water pipe bursts, turn off the water at the main shut-off valve and it is important to dry the affected area as soon as possible. PHC Restoration is ready to help assist in the event you are faced with a water damage emergency.
