Winter Is Here Prepare Your Plumbing for the Freeze

Winter is no longer a distant warning; it has arrived. With dropping temperatures, your plumbing faces serious risks that can lead to costly repairs and inconvenient disruptions. Frozen pipes can burst, causing water damage and leaving your home without running water. Taking steps now to protect your plumbing can save you time, money, and stress during the cold months ahead.

Outdoor faucet covered in frost during winter

Why Plumbing Freezes and What It Means

Water expands when it freezes. This expansion puts pressure on pipes, especially those made of metal or plastic, which can crack or burst under the strain. Pipes located in unheated areas such as basements, attics, garages, and exterior walls are most vulnerable. When a pipe bursts, water leaks can cause damage to floors, walls, and belongings. Repairing burst pipes often requires emergency plumbing services and can be expensive.

Frozen pipes also mean no water flow, which affects your ability to use sinks, showers, toilets, and appliances. This disruption can last until the pipes thaw and any damage is repaired. Preparing your plumbing before the deep freeze hits helps prevent these problems.

Steps to Protect Your Plumbing This Winter

Insulate Vulnerable Pipes

Wrap pipes in foam pipe insulation sleeves or use heat tape designed for plumbing. Focus on pipes in unheated spaces and those near exterior walls. Insulation keeps pipes warmer and reduces the chance of freezing.

Seal Gaps and Cracks

Check for gaps around pipes where they enter your home or run through walls. Use caulk or spray foam to seal these openings. Cold air sneaking in through cracks can chill pipes quickly.

Let Faucets Drip

During extreme cold, allow faucets connected to vulnerable pipes to drip slightly. Moving water is less likely to freeze. This simple step can prevent pipe freezing without wasting much water.

Drain Outdoor Water Lines

Shut off and drain outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems. Disconnect garden hoses and store them indoors. Leaving water in outdoor pipes can cause freezing and damage.

Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperature

Keep your home heated to at least 55°F (13°C), even when you are away. Sudden drops in indoor temperature increase the risk of frozen pipes.

What to Do If a Pipe Freezes

If you suspect a frozen pipe, act quickly to prevent bursting:

• Locate the frozen section by feeling for cold spots along the pipe.

• Apply gentle heat using a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels. Never use an open flame.

• Keep the faucet open so melting water can flow out.

• If you cannot thaw the pipe or see signs of damage, call a professional plumber immediately.

  
  

Long-Term Plumbing Care for Winter

Consider these additional measures to protect your plumbing year-round:

• Install pipe insulation during home renovations.

• Upgrade old pipes that are prone to freezing or bursting.

• Have a plumber inspect your system annually to identify weak spots.

• Install a water leak detection system that alerts you to leaks early.

  
  

Taking these steps helps reduce the risk of plumbing emergencies and keeps your home comfortable and safe.