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Freeze Prep: The East Texas Homeowner Checklist
What to do before a freeze warning — and what to do if you get caught unprepared.
Why now?
The 2021 Winter Storm Uri caused over $20 billion in property damage across Texas — a significant portion from burst pipes. East Texas homeowners were devastated. The lesson: these preparations take 30 minutes and the cost is near zero. Do them before the first freeze warning, not during it.
Your Checklist
- ✓Locate your main water shutoff valve and verify it turns freely
- ✓Disconnect garden hoses from all outdoor spigots — a connected hose defeats a frost-free bib
- ✓Insulate exposed pipes in unheated spaces: garage, crawl space, under sinks on exterior walls
- ✓Know which faucets to drip: farthest from water heater, in coldest areas of home
- ✓Keep garage doors closed if water lines run through the garage
- ✓Cover outdoor HVAC components? — generally NO for heat pump outdoor units (they need airflow)
- ✓Set indoor temperature to at least 55°F even when away — do not drop below this
- ✓If leaving for extended period during a freeze, consider shutting water off at the meter and draining lines
- ✓Know the signs of a frozen pipe: no water from a faucet, visible frost on a pipe
- ✓Never use an open flame to thaw pipes — hair dryer on low is safer