Quote:
Originally Posted by tv2016
Do the temperatures ever get cold enough in The Villages to be concerned about freezing pipes?
I notice the low temp in the next few days may get down to the mid 20's.
I'm thinking about my sprinkler system, washer in the garage, etc.
Thanks ahead for your insights and experiences.
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Thankfully, the "freeze" in Florida should be short lived compared to our frozen tundra north, but I'd say the following is good advice for anyone anywhere whenever a freeze occurs........
We take the following steps as autumn nears.....each and every year, in preparation for winter's freezing temps......and some, such as keeping the cabinet doors open by the kitchen sink plumbing pipes, when it's been sub zero such as most recently up here, is an additional step to remember.....
We know a lot of Vermonters who wintered in Florida two years ago and came back to burst pipes in their northern homes......
With freezing temps on the way , no matter where, it's time again to consider the 4 P's -- protecting people, pets, pipes and plants during the freezing temps.
Pets - Do NOT leave pets outside. Even the healthiest outdoor dogs and cats will need warmth when the temperatures dip.
Pipes - Pipes that are not insulated should be allowed to drip (both the cold and the hot water faucets).
During the night, when temps drop below freezing and thermostats are usually lowered, leave the cabinet door to the under the sink area propped open to allow heat to the plumbing. This is often needed if the plumbing is in an outside wall that is not well insulated. This space will often get colder than the room during freezing temperatures. Be sure the open cabinet does not contain hazardous materials that can be accessed by children or pets.
Disconnect garden hoses outside the house to prevent water from freezing and breaking faucet. Wrap the faucet with insulation or a cloth and cover. Consider investing in a cover for the outside faucets.
The
swimming pool pump should be running to prevent damage to the pump. Most pool equipment timers have sensors that will turn the pump on when temperatures reach freezing.
Plants - Winter garden plants and flowers need to be covered or brought indoors. Bed sheets are often used for cover; some gardeners put shop lights under the sheets to keep the plants from freezing. Plastic can kill plants so is not recommended as a cover. It's good to uncover plants a couple of hours after daylight and cover them again at dark. Any watering should be done before midday so plants are not wet or damp when temperatures reach freezing.
Protecting yourself, pets, plants and pipes takes a little preparation and basic common sense. Stock up on needed items and food, and stay safe and warm.
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For southern climates.....additional info.
Automatic sprinkler systems turned OFF.
To help prevent broken pipes and water leaks outside the home or business, cover all outside water spigots using common Styrofoam covers or other materials that will insulate the spigots during freezing temperatures. Before covering, outdoor water spigots should be inspected for leaks and repaired. Automatic sprinklers and other irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation, be turned OFF at the control box.
"Protecting faucets and turning off sprinkler systems helps prevent damage to pipes caused by freezing weather," "While many cities require freeze sensors on sprinkler systems, some systems may not have the freeze sensors and if scheduled watering occurs during freezing weather, dangerous icing to streets and sidewalks can result from misdirected sprinkler heads or overwatering,"