LAFAYETTE, La. — Cold weather is headed to Acadiana, and now is the time to take some measures to prevent pipes from freezing. Water and Waste experts in Rayne give some advice on how to get ready.
Instead of letting water drip overnight in an attempt to protect your pipes from freezing temperatures, there are a few things you should try before it gets to that point.
"We highly recommend insulating exposed pipes underground or anything exposable to the air. Prepare windows and doors to make sure you have weather stripping, caulking to seal out any drafts you may have" said the Director Code Enforcement Mark Daigle.
For residents in cities like Rayne and Abbeville, where water and sewer are included in their utility bill, any water leaks that erupt can get costly.
"So, your water bill is figured by the amount of water you use, and your sewer bill is based on the same."
Those who live in older homes are most at risk.
"There are new building codes today on how a house is built, new energy codes where a house is prepared for this as its being built. A lot of your older homes weren't built to the same standard."
In addition to those living in older homes, renters should also take precautions.
"You find it more at rental houses because a lot of landlords don't take care of it, so the tenants have to let their water run so the pipes don't freeze and that incurs more charges on them," said Water and Waste Superintendent.
Experts say change your filters and make sure your thermostats are working properly when it comes to staying warm. The most important thing is to stay proactive before those cold temperatures hit.
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