As a severe winter storm hits Texas, locals are turning to an unconventional method to protect outdoor pipes from freezing: the Whataburger styrofoam cup. Harris County Precinct 4 deputies have endorsed the hack as a legitimate last-resort option.
The method involves poking a small hole in the bottom of a styrofoam cup, threading a rubber band or cord through it, and securing it with a pen or stick. The cup is then stretched over the faucet handle so it snaps against the wall, providing insulation.
Constable Mark Herman shared the tip on Facebook, citing experts at Texas A&M University-Central Texas who confirmed that styrofoam's air bubbles act as insulation, similar to keeping coffee hot. However, other DIY attempts like pool noodles, hand towels, and duct tape have reportedly failed.
Protecting pipes is crucial as water expands when frozen, causing cracks or bursts that lead to water damage when temperatures rise. The National Weather Service warns that dangerously cold air will affect more than half of the U.S. population through the weekend, with wind chills potentially dropping to minus 50 degrees in some states.
