Stop leaks before they happen

When temperatures drop below freezing, your plumbing system becomes vulnerable to one of the most expensive and disruptive household problems: frozen and burst pipes. A little preparation before winter arrives can save you from emergency repairs, water damage, and unexpected downtime in your home. This guide walks through what to protect, what you can do yourself, and when it’s smart to call a professional.

Pipes Most Likely to Freeze

Not all pipes are created equal when it comes to cold weather risk. The most vulnerable are those exposed to unheated or poorly insulated areas, including:

• Pipes in basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages

• Plumbing running along exterior walls

• Pipes near foundation vents or drafty openings

Insulating these areas and sealing air leaks can dramatically reduce the chance of freezing.

Outdoor Faucets, Hose Bibs & Irrigation Lines

Outdoor plumbing is one of the most common failure points in winter.

• Disconnect and drain garden hoses completely

• Shut off interior valves that supply outdoor faucets and drain the lines

• Install insulated faucet covers on all exterior spigots

• Have irrigation systems professionally blown out before the first hard freeze

Skipping these steps is one of the fastest ways to end up with a burst pipe behind a wall come spring.

Water Heater Winter Prep

Your water heater works harder during winter months, especially with colder incoming water. A few preventive steps can improve performance and extend its lifespan:

• Insulate exposed hot water pipes

• Flush sediment from the tank annually

• Check the temperature setting (120°F is ideal for efficiency and safety)

• Inspect for leaks, corrosion, or unusual noises

A struggling water heater in winter often fails at the worst possible time.

DIY vs. When to Call a Plumber

DIY-friendly tasks include:

• Adding foam pipe insulation

• Installing faucet covers

• Disconnecting hoses

• Keeping cabinet doors open during extreme cold to allow warm air circulation

Call a plumber if:

• You’ve experienced frozen pipes before

• Your home has older plumbing or uninsulated areas

• You’re unsure how to properly shut off or drain lines

• You want a full system inspection before winter sets in

Preventive service is far less expensive than emergency repairs during a freeze.

Don’t Wait for a Cold-Weather Emergency

Winter plumbing issues are almost always easier—and cheaper—to prevent than to fix. A professional winter plumbing inspection can identify vulnerable areas before freezing temperatures expose them.

Schedule a winter plumbing inspection today to protect your home, your plumbing system, and your peace of mind before the cold really sets in.