To Drip or Not to Drip: That is the Houston Question
Houston, we have a problem. It's not aliens or traffic this time, it's faucets. Specifically, whether or not we should drip them during those bone-chilling winter spells. Let's dive in, shall we?
The Great Drip Debate
You've probably heard the old wives' tale: "Drip, drip, drip to keep those pipes from freezing." Well, in most parts of the country, that's solid advice. But in the heart of Texas? Not so fast, partner.
Houston's water system is a bit of a rebel. Instead of relying on towering water tanks to store the good stuff, we use underground pumping stations. Imagine trying to keep a soda can pressurized by constantly sipping from it. That's basically what dripping your faucets does to our water system.
The Consequences of Drippage
So, what happens when everyone in Houston decides to become a human faucet? Water pressure plummets faster than a Texan's hopes during a Cowboys losing streak. This can lead to all sorts of problems, like:
- Low water pressure: Kiss your satisfying shower goodbye.
- Burn alerts: That's right, you could end up with scalding hot water. Not ideal for a relaxing bath.
- System overload: Our poor pumping stations can only handle so much. Overwork them and you might find yourself without water at all.
What to Do Instead
If you're worried about frozen pipes, don't panic. There are better ways to protect your plumbing:
- Insulate exposed pipes: Wrap those pipes up like a burrito. It's cozy and effective.
- Open cabinets: Let warm air circulate around your pipes. It's like giving them a little hug from the inside.
- Turn off water to outdoor faucets: Prevent those pesky freeze-ups.
How to Handle a Frozen Pipe Emergency
Okay, so despite your best efforts, a pipe has frozen solid. Don't freak out. Here's a quick guide:
- How to thaw a frozen pipe slowly: Apply heat gradually with a hair dryer or space heater.
- How to find the water shut-off valve: It's usually located near your water meter.
- How to prevent pipes from bursting: Call a plumber ASAP if you can't thaw the pipe yourself.
So, there you have it. Dripping faucets might seem like a harmless way to prevent frozen pipes, but in Houston, it's more like pouring gasoline on a fire. Keep those faucets dry and your plumbing happy!