...and about to get colder.
Yeah, we've had a pretty mild winter so far, but don't let these early-winter Alabama temperatures fool you. January and February have an uncanny way of sneaking up on us. That's why you need to be sure you are prepared when the hard freeze hits.
It always amazes me when I see a pipe (PVC, copper or galvanized) that has been split by the pressure that builds up during a freeze. It's really easy to forget to cover exterior faucets--especially when you may be out washing your car one day and scraping ice off of the windshield the next.
If you use those faucets during the winter, get one of the styrofoam cups that can be taken off and on very quickly. Most have a plastic loop that goes around the faucet handle and a drawstring that pulls through the cup and snugs it up to the the wall of the house, effectively creating a barrier from the freezing wind and precipitation. These cups are very inexpensive and can generally be used year after year.
If you have done any plumbing repairs, be sure they are adequately covered with insulation. Don't miss the elbows and tees. Check them occassionally for damage from pets or other animals. Close all foundation vents, especially if they will allow cold air to hit plumbing pipes. Mobile home skirting should also be seamless.
I'm not going out on a limb to predict a hard freeze sometime between now and March 1, because it always happens. Just as sure as some folks will get caught unprepared and have to do plumbing work on the coldest days of the year. Take a stroll around the house, look for potential problems and remember that help is just around the corner at your local hardware store.
