Protecting Your Tyler Home from Frozen Pipes
While Tyler, Texas enjoys mild winters compared to northern states, sudden cold snaps can catch homeowners off guard. When temperatures drop below 32°F, unprotected pipes can freeze, expand, and burst—causing thousands of dollars in water damage.
Why Tyler Homes Are Vulnerable
Many East Texas homes weren't built with extreme cold in mind. Pipes often run through uninsulated exterior walls, crawl spaces, and attics where they're exposed to freezing temperatures. The combination of older construction and occasional hard freezes creates the perfect conditions for pipe disasters.
7 Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes
**1. Insulate Exposed Pipes** Wrap pipes in unheated areas with foam insulation sleeves. Pay special attention to pipes in: - Garages - Crawl spaces - Attics - Exterior walls
**2. Seal Air Leaks** Cold air entering through gaps around pipes accelerates freezing. Use caulk or spray foam to seal openings where pipes enter your home.
**3. Let Faucets Drip** When temperatures drop below 28°F, let cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Moving water is less likely to freeze.
**4. Open Cabinet Doors** Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under kitchen and bathroom sinks by opening cabinet doors during cold snaps.
**5. Maintain Thermostat Settings** Keep your home heated to at least 55°F, even when away. The cost of heating is far less than repairing burst pipes.
**6. Disconnect Garden Hoses** Before the first freeze, disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses. Shut off interior valves supplying outdoor faucets if possible.
**7. Know Your Main Shut-Off** Locate your main water shut-off valve now. If a pipe bursts, you'll need to stop water flow immediately.
Warning Signs of Frozen Pipes
- Reduced water pressure or no water flow
- Frost visible on exposed pipes
- Strange odors from drains (frozen waste lines)
- Bulging or cracked pipes
What to Do If Pipes Freeze
If you suspect frozen pipes: 1. Keep the faucet open to allow water to flow as ice melts 2. Apply gentle heat with a hair dryer or heating pad 3. Never use open flames or high heat 4. Call Hester Plumbing immediately if you can't locate the freeze or if pipes have burst
Tyler's Freeze Risk Months
In Tyler, TX, the highest risk for frozen pipes occurs from December through February, with January being the coldest month. However, surprise freezes can occur as early as November and as late as March.
Professional Winterization Services
Hester Plumbing offers comprehensive winterization services for Tyler homeowners, including pipe insulation, heat tape installation, and whole-home plumbing inspections. Don't wait for a freeze warning—prepare your home now.
Call Hester Plumbing at (903) 326-3358 for a free winterization consultation.
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