01/21/2026
Time to get "freeze-ready" here in New Orleans.
While we'll see rain and cooler air starting Saturday, the real danger to our plumbing usually hits when temperatures dip into the low 30s or upper 20s, which is currently forecast for Sunday night into Monday and Tuesday morning.
To keep your home safe, here is a quick checklist for protecting your pipes:
🚰 Pipe Protection Checklist
Insulate Exposed Pipes: Focus on any pipes in unheated areas like attics, crawl spaces, or garages. You can use foam "pool noodle" sleeves or even wrap them in old towels or blankets secured with duct tape.
Disconnect Garden Hoses: This is a big one. Remove hoses from outdoor spigots and drain them. If you have faucet covers (the foam "igloos"), pop those on now.
Drip the Faucets: When the temperature drops below freezing, let a very thin trickle of water (about the size of a pencil lead) run from the faucet furthest from your main water shut-off. This keeps water moving and relieves pressure.
Open Cabinet Doors: For sinks located on exterior walls, open the cabinet doors below them. This allows the warm air from your heater to circulate around the pipes.
Know Your Shut-Off: Make sure everyone in the house knows where the main water shut-off valve is. If a pipe does burst, you need to be able to stop the flow immediately to prevent flooding.
Don't forget the other "P's":
Plants: Bring sensitive potted plants inside or wrap larger ones in burlap or frost cloth.
Pets: Bring all outdoor pets inside. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them!
People: Check on elderly neighbors or those who might need help winterizing their homes.
Stay warm and dry this weekend and into next week!