The coldest temperature of the season thus far are expected to arrive early next week. The City of Gatesville recommends the following tips to prepare your home for the freezing temperature with the coldest temperatures set to arrive Sunday into Tuesday.
Open cabinets and maintain a consistent thermostat temperature both day and night.
Keep the heat on when going away for vacation during cold weather.
Insulate pipes and faucets in unheated areas, and seal off openings in doors and air vents.
Drain swimming pool equipment, shut down your sprinkler system, turn off outside faucets, and remove connected hoses.
Cover outdoor spigots with faucet covers or freeze caps.
Avoid dripping faucets throughout the day and night. Instead, shut off your water and run all faucets to drain the water from your pipes before going to bed. In the morning, turn your water back on and use it during the day.
If a pipe freezes but has not burst, attempt to thaw it out with an electric heating pad, hairdryer, or a towel soaked in hot water.
Apply heat by gradually moving the heat source toward the coldest spot on the pipes. Never concentrate heat in one area, as cracking ice can damage the line.
Never use an oven or a gas stovetop to heat your home.
