With cold temperatures expected in Baton Rouge, Port Allen, Plaquemine, French Settlement, Rosedale, and nearby areas, it’s essential to prepare your home for the cold. Freezing weather can cause serious damage to your plumbing and HVAC systems, but a few simple precautions can keep your home safe and comfortable. Southern Air Baton Rouge is here to help with expert advice to get you ready.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costly problems during winter weather. Protect your plumbing with these tips:
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: Add foam insulation or heat tape to pipes in unheated areas like garages, attics, and crawl spaces.
- Let Faucets Drip: Running a small stream of water keeps it moving and helps prevent freezing.
- Open Cabinet Doors: Let warm air circulate around pipes under sinks, especially those near exterior walls.
- Seal Gaps: Use caulk or spray foam to close gaps where cold air can seep in and reach your pipes.
- Locate Your Shut-Off Valve: Knowing where to shut off your home’s water supply can save time and reduce damage in an emergency.
If you experience an emergency plumbing repair issue, call Southern Air Baton Rouge immediately for service.
Prepare Your HVAC System for the Cold
Your heating system works hard during freezing weather. Keep it running efficiently with these steps:
- Schedule a Professional Tune-Up: Have Southern Air technicians inspect your system to ensure it’s operating properly.
- Replace Filters Regularly: Clean filters improve airflow and help your system run efficiently.
- Seal Drafts: Check for air leaks around doors, windows, and ductwork. Use weatherstripping or caulk to keep your home warm and energy bills lower.
- Test Your Thermostat: Make sure it’s functioning correctly and consider setting a consistent temperature to avoid extra strain on your system.
If you find your system struggling to keep up with the cold, you may need a furnace repair or system tune-up. Request your appointment online today to have one of our expert team members take a look!
Winterize Outdoor Fixtures
Outdoor plumbing is especially vulnerable to freezing weather. Protect your fixtures with these tips:
- Disconnect Hoses: Store garden hoses indoors to prevent ice from forming inside them.
- Drain Outdoor Faucets: Shut off the water supply to exterior faucets and open them to let any remaining water escape.
- Cover Faucets: Insulated covers provide an extra layer of protection against freezing temperatures.
- Prepare Your Sprinkler System: Drain and winterize your irrigation system according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Stay Comfortable and Safe Indoors
Freezing weather can bring unexpected challenges, so take steps to stay safe:
- Use Space Heaters Wisely: Keep them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.
- Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure they’re functioning, especially if using alternative heating methods like fireplaces.
- Keep Pets Warm: Bring pets indoors during cold spells and provide them with warm, comfortable bedding.
Southern Air Baton Rouge Is Ready to Assist
At Southern Air Baton Rouge, our HVAC and plumbing crews are on standby during cold weather emergencies. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe or a malfunctioning heating system, we’re here to help with fully stocked trucks and experienced technicians.
Contact Southern Air Baton Rouge Today
Don’t let freezing weather take you by surprise. If you need help preparing your home or face issues during the cold snap, Southern Air Baton Rouge has you covered. Serving Baton Rouge, Port Allen, Plaquemine, French Settlement, Rosedale, and surrounding areas, we’re just a call away. Call us at (225) 217-6224 or schedule an appointment online at your convenience.
By following these tips and relying on Southern Air Baton Rouge, you can keep your home safe, warm, and comfortable all winter long.