The Threshold Temperature For Most Pipes To Freeze In The South Is Approximately 20 Degrees. Pipes That Run Along Exterior Walls Are Especially Vulnerable To Freezing During This Time Of Year. Although Most New Homes Are Well Insulated, You Should Take Preventative Measures To Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing. Below Are a Few Recommendations and Suggestions From Various Organizations Regarding The Cold Weather.
Huntsville Utilities
Huntsville Utilities Recommend That Customers Leave The Faucet Closest To Where Their Water Service Enters Their Residence On Slightly, With A Pencil-Point Thin Stream Of Water, And Disconnect All Water Hoses From Any Outside Faucets. These Measures Will Help Prevent Freezing Pipes That Can Lead To Expensive Repairs.
The American Red Cross
**And Don’t Forget Your Pets – They Are Susceptible To The Cold As Well**
The Humane Society
If For Some Reason Your Dog Or Cat Is Outdoors Much Of The Day, He Or She Must Be Protected By A Dry, Draft-Free Shelter That Is Large Enough To Allow Them To Sit And Lie Down Comfortably But Small Enough To Hold In His/Her Body Heat. The Floor Should Be Raised A Few Inches Off The Ground And Covered With Cedar Shavings Or Straw. The Doorway Should Be Covered With Waterproof Burlap Or Heavy Plastic. Or, Keep Your Pets Indoors During Extreme Conditions. Salt And Other Chemicals Used To Melt Snow And Ice Can Irritate The Pads Of Your Pet's Feet. Wipe All Paws With A Damp Towel Before Your Pet Licks Them And Irritates His/Her Mouth.
To Thaw Frozen Pipes
Melting Salts Snow or Ice