FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CORRECTION (Original Release 12/21/2022 9:27 AM ): Updated below. Changed the power outage number from (337) 291-5700 to (337) 291-9200. So the corrected line reads: If you experience a power outage, please call LUS at (337) 291-9200.
Lafayette, LA (December 21, 2022) – With temperatures predicted to drop below freezing in the Lafayette area, there is a greater potential for water leaks and damage. Now is a good time to prepare your home to prevent frozen pipes and water damage.
Kent LaBry, LUS Conservation Specialist, has these tips for protecting your home during extremely cold weather:
- Wrap exposed pipes outside and underneath home (if above ground) with insulation.
- Cover outdoor faucets.
- Protect any water pipes that run throughout the attic.
- Disconnect and drain any outside water hoses.
- Maintain a home temperature no lower than 55 degrees.
- Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors under sinks, especially if along an outside wall, to allow heat to circulate around uninsulated pipes.
- If away from home, it is suggested to turn off water at the hand cut-off valve and drain pipes.
If you do experience a frozen pipe:
- Do not attempt to thaw pipes with a torch or flame.
- Thaw pipes with heat from a hair dryer or hot water.
- Inspect pipes after thawing for any leaks.
- Monitor your home’s water usage after the freeze for the next 5 days with your LUS online account for signs of a possible leak at www.lus.org/MyAccount.
- If a pipe does burst, shut off the hand cut-off valve or call LUS at (337) 291-5740 if you need assistance locating the hand cut-off valve.
With temperatures below freezing, if you do experience a burst pipe or have water issues, please call LUS at (337) 291-5740. If you experience a power outage, please call LUS at (337) 291-5700.
