Prepare your Lake Tahoe home for cold temperatures
Submitted by paula on Thu, 10/17/2024 - 2:17pm
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - It was a cold one overnight in South Lake Tahoe, and overnight temperatures below freezing look like they're here to stay for a while.
As temperatures begin to drop, protecting your home plumbing from the damage and expense caused by frozen pipes is essential. Remember these tips to prepare your home for chilly temps.
Before freezing temperatures set in:
Turn off and drain irrigation systems.
Disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses.
Insulate exposed pipes or faucets.
Seal holes and cracks in exterior walls, foundation, and around pipes.
Locate and test your home shut-off valve
Make sure your water district has your current phone in case of an emergency. To update your contact information for South Tahoe Public Utility District, call 530-544-6474 or go to https://stpud.watersmart.com/
If you are away from your home during the winter months:
Turn off your home shut-off valve.
Open indoor and outdoor faucets to drain pipes. Remember to close faucets once drained.
Open all bedroom, bathroom, and closet doors, and cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathroom.
Keep the thermostat at 65 degrees (as recommended by the Insurance Information Institute).
To learn more about winterizing your home, visit https://www.stpud.us/winterizing-tips.