Hey, New Orleans! With the forecast showing temperatures dipping, it's time to step into our superhero capes and safeguard our homes and community. Here's a practical, down-to-earth guide to help you navigate this chilly spell like a pro.
1. Protect Your Pipes Like a Pro
Keep Pipes from Freezing: Let water trickle slightly from the faucet farthest from your water meter. A steady drip keeps the pipes from freezing.
Insulation is Key: Insulate exposed pipes. You can find insulation materials at hardware stores, or use towels in a pinch.
When Pipes Freeze: Keep the faucet turned on, apply heat to the affected area until pressure is normalized.
Check for gadgets: Did you know there are inexpensive gadgets to control the drip of your faucet for you and save water and water bills? We like the Freeze Miser check it out at your local hardware store.
Check for leaks: Turn off all faucets in the home post-freeze and go check your water meter; if it's moving, you may have a leak. Got a leak? Not a problem. We're happy to refer a plumber we trust.
2. Keep Your Home Cozy and Efficient
Set the Right Temperature: Keep your thermostat at a lower yet comfortable setting, around 60 degrees, to balance warmth with energy efficiency.
Don't Cheat: While it may seem smart to turn off your thermostat while you travel, the walls of the home actually get colder than the interior. Pipes turn out to be more comfortable close to 60 degrees, too!
Seal Drafts: Check doors and windows for drafts and seal them up. This small step can make a big difference in keeping the heat inside. Blackout curtains can go a long way to helping keep out drafts. Your energy bill will thank you.
3. Look After Your Furry and Leafy Friends
Pet Care: Bring your pets indoors where it's warm and safe. Can't catch that cat? Put out deeper water bowls that won't freeze. Avoid blankets that can get wet and freeze. Look into cat houses; yes, it's a thing.
Plant Care: Bring sensitive plants inside or cover them to protect them from the cold. Christmas lights that produce heat can really help as well.
4. Community Superhero Moves
Check on Your Neighbors: Especially those who are new to the area, traveling, or might need a hand prepping for the cold. Your offer to help could be a lifesaver. As a former New Yorker I can tell you I thought I knew cold, I did not know humid weather meets historic home cold!
5. Embrace Smart Home Technology
Smart Thermostats: If you have one, use it to efficiently manage your home's heating, even when you're away.
6. Don't Forget the Outdoors
Garage Care: If you're lucky enough to have outdoor storage or a garage, keep your garage door closed to protect what's inside and potentially add a bit of insulation to your home.
Tree Care: Trim any branches that could be a hazard in cold weather.
Clear gutters: Clear gutters so they remain dry (and don't get heavy with frozen water).
7. Be Prepared for Power Outages
Emergency Kit: Have flashlights and extra batteries ready, just in case.
By following these tips, you're not just keeping your home safe; you're contributing to the well-being of our wonderful community. Let's show this cold spell what New Orleans is made of – warmth, care, and resilience. Stay warm and safe, everyone!
And there you have it! As we all band together to keep our homes and community safe and warm during this cold spell, remember that the team at Cool Murphy Real Estate is here for you. We're not just about helping you find a home; we're about helping you love where you live. And when the time comes for you to find a new place to call home, we're here for that too. Stay warm, stay safe, and remember, we're just a call away for any of your real estate needs in our beautiful New Orleans. 🏡❤️
Voted Neighborhood Favorite by Nextdoor, Team Cool Murphy is a top-producing, licensed real estate team based in New Orleans, brokered by Cool Murphy, LLC.
Celebrated for her next-level creative approach to real estate, Elisa Cool Murphy is an award-winning, top-performing agent in New Orleans and the founder and leader of Cool Murphy, LLC.
Contact Her -
email: cool@coolmurphy.com
Facebook: @homeinneworleans
IG: @coolmurphynola
YouTube: @coolmurphynola
phone: 504-321-3194
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