Essential Plumbing Tips Before the First Freeze

As temperatures begin to drop, homeowners have plenty to think about—from heating systems and fireplaces to snow removal and winterizing outdoor equipment. But don't forget about one of the most important systems in your home: your plumbing.

Freezing temperatures can cause water inside your pipes to freeze and expand, potentially leading to cracked or burst pipes, water damage, and expensive repairs.

The good news is that a few simple steps before the first hard freeze can help protect your plumbing throughout the winter.

Here are four important winter plumbing tips from Catons Plumbing, Drains & Water Cleanup.

1. Don't Neglect Your Outdoor Spigots

Your outdoor faucets—or spigots—get plenty of use throughout the warmer months. From watering flowers and washing cars to kids playing with sprinklers and pools, those fixtures can see a lot of activity.

When temperatures begin to fall, however, outdoor spigots need some attention.

Before the first freeze:

• Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor spigots.
• Turn off the interior shutoff valve supplying the outdoor faucet, if your home has one.
• Open the outdoor spigot to allow water remaining in the line to drain.
• Close the outdoor spigot once the line has drained.
• Consider using an insulated faucet cover for additional protection.

Why is this important?

Even when an outdoor faucet is turned off, water can remain inside the pipe leading to it. If that water freezes and expands, it can place significant pressure on the pipe and potentially cause it to crack or burst.

And the damage isn't necessarily limited to the area outside your home. A burst pipe inside a wall can allow water to enter your home, potentially causing significant water damage.

Don't wait until the first freeze to winterize your outdoor plumbing.

2. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Some plumbing pipes are particularly vulnerable to freezing because they're located in areas that aren't as well protected from the cold.

Basements, crawl spaces, garages, and other unheated areas can become cold enough for exposed pipes to freeze during extended periods of freezing weather.

Inspect areas where pipes are exposed and consider adding pipe insulation to help protect them.

Pipe insulation can help reduce the risk of freezing by providing an additional layer of protection against cold temperatures.

Pay particular attention to pipes located near exterior walls or in areas where cold air can enter your home.

3. Mind Your Thermostat

Your home's heating system plays an important role in protecting your plumbing during the winter.

When temperatures drop, keep your thermostat set to a minimum of 55°F, particularly when you're away from home.

This is especially important if you're traveling during the winter. You may be tempted to turn the heat down significantly while you're away, but doing so can allow indoor temperatures to fall low enough for vulnerable pipes to freeze.

Before leaving for a winter trip:

• Keep the thermostat set to at least 55°F.
• Make sure your heating system is operating properly.
• Open cabinet doors beneath sinks on particularly cold days to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
• Ask someone you trust to check on your home if you'll be away for an extended period.

A few simple precautions can help reduce the chance of returning home to a frozen or burst pipe.

4. Seal the Cracks

Cold air entering your home can make already-vulnerable plumbing even more susceptible to freezing.

Take some time before winter to inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and openings where cold air can enter. Pay particular attention to areas around windows, doors, foundations, and utility penetrations.

You should also inspect areas where plumbing is located near exterior walls. Sealing gaps around these areas can help prevent cold air from reaching your pipes.

Keeping cold air out doesn't just help protect your plumbing—it can also make your home more comfortable and energy efficient during the winter.

What Should You Do If a Pipe Freezes?

Even with proper preparation, extremely cold weather can sometimes cause plumbing problems.

If you suspect a pipe has frozen, don't use an open flame or other high-heat source to thaw it. Doing so can damage your plumbing or create a serious fire hazard.

If a pipe has frozen or you discover a leak, shut off the water supply if you can safely do so and contact a professional plumber.

A frozen pipe can crack without immediately leaking. Once the ice begins to thaw, however, water can escape through the damaged section of pipe.

Don't Let Winter Catch Your Plumbing Off Guard

A little preparation before the first freeze can go a long way toward protecting your home.

Disconnect those hoses. Insulate vulnerable pipes. Keep your home warm. Seal areas where cold air can get in.

And if winter weather does result in a frozen pipe, burst pipe, plumbing leak, or water damage, Catons Plumbing, Drains & Water Cleanup is here to help.

From plumbing repairs and drain cleaning to water cleanup and emergency plumbing services, our team can help get your home back in working order.

Prepare your plumbing before winter arrives—and if you have a plumbing problem, call Catons.