WTFs Going On Down There and Good Luck

One of the local members in the SA thread works for the big energy company down here, he stated that the infrastructure was not built to tolerate the cold like it is up north. It was designed to help with the hot summer months that we typically have, I’m sure there will be a new look at how this can be protected moving forward.

 

I will see if I can fin her log on info

 

The vast majority of companies are on 6 or 12 month contracts. They have have tiers on the plans, but shouldn't be nearly what the media makes it out to be.

Checked ours online, it's only up about $35 from the previous month, but consider we were both home for a week when the house would usually be dark.

 

Yeah I am on a 12 month fixed rate contract.. This should mean that I will not see next bill in the stratosphere?

 

No, you’ll be fine.

 

I see where the government just released disaster funds for Texas. I wish all my brothers and sisters down there safety, security, warmth and clean water

 

I kinda want to do it again... Propressed over a dozen leaks yesterday. Made off with over $3k in repairs. Would of made more but supply store ran out of fittings. And I’m not even a plumber, just a guy with the knowledge and tools

And my electric bill during the winter is like $40 and maybe $100 during the summer. You just gotta know how to build efficient

 

Something to consider beyond the generating capacity.

Ice storms have a nasty habit of putting power lines on the ground and buggering transfer stations.

If the lines are on the ground and transfer station damaged, then the generating capacity is meaningless. Even if the power can be generated it can't be distributed.

Water is a whole different issue. Here in the frozen tundra of IA, water lines are buried at least 4 feet. Water lines in TX are not buried deep. Any ground freeze will result in frozen burst water lines.

My folks retired to San Antonio, Mom's birthplace. Dad was born and raised in northern IA. When they were building their retirement home, Dad insisted that water supply to the house be at least 3 feet underground. He would not look at home in a sub-division with above ground electric distribution. They lived there for 25 years, only lost electric 1 time.

My point, Utilities need to be underground to avoid ice storm and wind damage. Water lines need to be well below the frost line.


Great, we finally got rid of the sub-zero beast.....now, its snowing again. Looking for 4-6". Typical IA weather.

My only suggestions to the Texans.....is to bundle up as best you can. Open your water taps so water will trickle thru. For the love of God, don't try to heat the home with the car or stove or burning propane.