Floridians need to brace for the drop in temperatures that could cause serious headaches for drivers and homeowners alike. With forecasts predicting overnight lows plunging into the 20s and 30s over the next few days, AAA is sending out an urgent warning to prepare now as the freeze sets in.
The auto club warns that even a short period of freezing weather can be enough to kill car batteries and burst water pipes.
History shows that whenever the temperature takes a dive like this, roadside assistance lines get jammed. Mark Jenkins, a spokesman for AAA, explained that the calls start pouring in almost immediately when the weather turns. While dead batteries are the most common issue they see, he noted that homeowners also face a much more expensive risk. Frozen pipes can burst without much warning, potentially causing thousands of dollars in water damage.
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The cold is especially hard on car batteries because it reduces their ability to hold a charge. If a battery is already old or weak, a night in the 30s is often enough to push it over the edge. Jenkins pointed out that if a battery is more than three years old, it is smart to get it tested immediately. Drivers should listen for a sluggish start or “slow crank” when turning the key, as this is a major warning sign. If the car struggles to start, it is better to replace the battery now rather than getting stranded in the cold later.
Your house needs just as much attention as your car. When water inside plumbing freezes, it expands, creating pressure that can rupture pipes behind walls, under sinks, or in attics. To prevent a messy disaster, experts recommend letting faucets drip slightly to keep the water moving.
It also helps to open cabinet doors under sinks to let the home’s warm air circulate around the plumbing. If you plan to be away from home during the cold snap, keep the thermostat set to at least 55 degrees.
Finally, drivers should keep an eye on their tire pressure. As the air gets colder, tire pressure naturally decreases. You can lose about one to two PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature.
This means many people will wake up to a low-tire warning light on their dashboard. It is best to check the pressure first thing in the morning when the tires are cold. Make sure to inflate them to the number listed on the driver’s door sticker rather than relying solely on the dashboard light to tell you when there is a problem.
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