El Paso Residents Brace for Arctic Blast, Protect Plumbing

EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — As El Paso prepares for a significant drop in temperatures, residents are being urged to take precautions to protect their plumbing from the impending cold snap. With temperatures expected to plunge well below freezing, the risk of burst pipes and costly damages looms large.

Frank Perry, owner of Sun City Plumbing, emphasized the importance of safeguarding any plumbing exposed outside the home. “Any exposed piping and it could be copper, it could be PVC, it could be hex, it could be anything. If you don’t even know what that piping is for, can’t hurt to cover it up,” Perry said.

Perry recommended using insulation, which is readily available at big box stores, to cover pipes. He also advised disconnecting water hoses to prevent freezing.

Local resident Brandon Tipton shared his preparation strategy, saying, “Drain the sprinkler systems, I make sure all the pipes that are exposed outside the house, because we’re on a concrete foundation are covered up and kept warm.”

Another resident, Antonio Trespalacios, mentioned using wraps designed for pipes, while Tipton added, “The thing I’ve always found that works the best is the pool noodles. Cut those in half and throw those over the pipe.”

Perry stressed the importance of knowing how to shut off the water meter in case of an emergency. “Number one thing, we go back to knowing how to shut your water. That’s the number one thing that’s going to save you thousands of dollars,” Perry said.

Perry demonstrated the process, explaining that residents should have a tool ready to turn the knob on the water meter to the right, which can prevent further damage if a pipe bursts.

Perry expects a surge in demand for plumbing services, anticipating up to 35 jobs per day compared to the usual 15 during this time of year. He advised residents to contact their plumber after addressing any immediate issues.