Winter can be tough on your home’s plumbing system. Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to expensive repairs and water damage. Preparing your plumbing for cold weather is essential to protect your home. Here’s how to winterize your plumbing system, what to do if pipes freeze, and tips for keeping your system safe during the colder months.

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

• Use foam pipe insulation, heat tape, or pipe sleeves on pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and exterior walls.

• Ensure all insulation is secure and covers the full length of the pipe.

2. Seal Gaps and Cracks

• Check for drafts near pipes, especially where they enter the house through walls or floors.

• Use caulking or expanding foam to seal gaps and keep cold air out.

3. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

• Remove and store garden hoses.

• Shut off the water supply to outdoor spigots and open the spigot to drain any remaining water. Install insulated covers over outdoor faucets.

4. Let Faucets Drip

• During extreme cold, let faucets connected to exposed pipes drip slightly. Moving water is less likely to freeze.

5. Open Cabinet Doors

• Open cabinets under sinks, especially those on exterior walls, to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

6. Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperature

• Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you’re away from home, to prevent interior pipes from freezing.

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Water Heater

• Flush the water heater to remove sediment buildup.

• Check the water heater’s temperature setting and insulation to ensure efficient operation during winter.

2. Drain and Shut Off Unused Lines

• Drain swimming pool supply lines, sprinkler systems, and other water lines that won’t be used during winter.

• Shut off the supply to these lines and ensure all water is drained to avoid freezing.

3. Test Your Sump Pump

• Ensure your sump pump is functioning correctly to handle any water that may accumulate during thawing periods.

• Clean the pump and test it with water to verify it’s operational.

4. Install Frost-Proof Faucets

• If possible, replace standard outdoor faucets with frost-proof models designed to prevent freezing.

5. Locate Your Main Water Shutoff

• Know where your main water shutoff valve is located and ensure it works properly. Quick access to this valve can minimize damage if a pipe bursts.

Even with precautions, pipes can sometimes freeze. If you suspect a frozen pipe, act quickly to minimize damage:

1. Identify the Frozen Pipe

• Look for pipes with frost on the exterior or no water flow from faucets.

• Common locations include exterior walls, basements, attics, and crawl spaces.

2. Thaw the Pipe Safely

• Open the faucet connected to the frozen pipe to relieve pressure and allow water to flow when the pipe thaws.

• Apply heat to the frozen section of the pipe using one of the following methods:

• Wrap the pipe with a heating pad or towels soaked in hot water.

• Use a hairdryer, moving it back and forth along the pipe.

• Place a space heater nearby, ensuring it’s used safely and not left unattended.

• Do Not use open flames, such as a blowtorch, as this can damage pipes and pose a fire risk.

3. Check for Leaks

• Once the pipe is thawed, inspect it for cracks or leaks. Turn the water back on slowly and monitor for any water escaping.

If a pipe bursts, immediate action is crucial:

1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply: Shut off the water at the main valve to prevent further flooding.

2. Drain the System: Open all faucets to drain the remaining water in the pipes.

3. Clean Up Water: Remove any standing water to prevent further damage or mold growth.

4. Call a Professional: Contact a licensed plumber to repair the burst pipe and inspect for additional damage.

• Upgrade Pipes: Replace older pipes with newer materials like PEX, which are more resistant to freezing and bursting.

• Install a Smart Leak Detector: These devices monitor for leaks or temperature drops, alerting you to potential problems before they escalate.

• Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual inspections to ensure your plumbing system is prepared for the demands of winter.

Winterizing your plumbing system is a proactive step to protect your home from the costly damage caused by frozen or burst pipes. By insulating pipes, draining unused water lines, and maintaining a consistent indoor temperature, you can avoid common winter plumbing problems. In case of frozen or burst pipes, quick action and professional help can minimize damage and restore your plumbing system.