Western Washington braces for cold; experts offer freeze prep tips

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Chilly weather is on the way this weekend. And it’s certainly going to cause some issues around Western Washington. But, before the cold hits, experts explain how you can avoid the worst.

Most importantly? Locate your main water shutoff valve outside your home prior to those temperatures dipping down to at or below freezing. It’s just one of the many preventative measures that could go a long way in keeping your family and home safe.

“If you don’t know where the main water shutoff is, you’re in trouble,” says Bill Cahill.

Cahill, the owner of Beacon Plumbing, acknowledges there are several things you can do to ensure the cold weather doesn’t create a bigger problem in and around your home.

Simple tips like making sure you’ve got enough insulation in your basement or attic. If not, you may want to think about adding a space heater. You can also close your garage door. And, open up the cabinets located below faucets.

“Let that warm air circulate underneath,” Cahill advises. “And, if that isn’t enough because it’s a remote faucet like this one, make sure that the sink drain is clear and turn the tap on…the cold tap. And, let it run all night long.”

He also says installing insulation, which is inexpensive, is key to preventing cracked or burst plumbing. You should also check to see if you have exposed pipes, both inside your home in spaces like the garage or attic, as well as outside the residence.

Cahill also says tearing off some cardboard and placing small cutouts over outside vents will prevent excess cold air from entering your home and creating plumbing issues. You should also disconnect any outside hoses before a freeze hits.

Meanwhile, Puget Sound Energy says setting the thermostat to 68 degrees or lower will keep energy costs down in the event of cold weather. That may be a bit chilly. But, lowering the temperature anywhere from seven to 10 degrees when you’re asleep or away will make a difference on your bill.

And, for their part, the energy utility company braces for inclement weather around the clock.

“At PSE, we’re preparing for storms 24/7; not just the week of the storm,” says spokesperson Gerald Tracy. “So, year in and year out, we’re inspecting thousands of poles. Nearly 25,000 miles of water throughout our service territory. Continuously finding reliability upgrades or adding new generation resources where we can.”

Tracy also reminds customers to employ some common-sense safety tips. Don’t use coal or a gas range to heat your home. Keep space heaters away from furniture. And, in the event of power loss, avoid using candles.

Just some of the ways to keep yourself safe, with cold temperatures on the horizon.