Winter Plumbing Guide: Expert Tips for Homeowners to Prevent Plumbing Problems
Winter is a beautiful season, but it can also be a challenging one for homeowners, especially when it comes to plumbing. As the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, the risk of plumbing problems increases dramatically. Freezing pipes, burst water lines, and frozen outdoor faucets are just some of the issues that can lead to costly repairs and major disruptions.
To help you stay ahead of potential plumbing problems, we’ve put together this comprehensive Winter Plumbing Guide. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or new to the area, these expert tips will ensure that your plumbing system stays intact throughout the winter months, sparing you from the headaches and costs associated with frozen or damaged pipes.
Why Winter Can Be Tough on Plumbing
Winter can put your plumbing system to the test in ways that summer simply doesn’t. The biggest threat is the cold. When temperatures plummet, the water inside your pipes can freeze. Frozen water expands, which can cause pipes to crack or even burst. Not only is this an emergency repair that can lead to water damage, but it can also cause your heating system to fail or result in a loss of hot water.
Beyond frozen pipes, winter brings other plumbing challenges. Heavy snow, sleet, and ice can clog gutters and drains, leading to water backup or even flooding. Snowmelt can also cause pipes to shift or crack if the ground thaws and refreezes unevenly. For homeowners in areas with harsh winters, understanding the risks associated with colder temperatures is essential for avoiding costly damage.
The good news? Most winter plumbing problems are preventable with the right precautions.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are by far the most common and expensive plumbing problem homeowners face in the winter. Once the water inside pipes freezes, it can block the flow of water, create pressure that leads to burst pipes, and result in major water damage. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent this from happening.
Insulate Your Pipes
Exposed pipes are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Pipes that are located in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, or crawl spaces should be insulated to keep the temperature around them stable. You can purchase foam pipe insulation, which is easy to install and relatively inexpensive. Alternatively, heat tape, which warms the pipes to prevent freezing, can also be a good option.
Keep the Heat On
Even if you’re planning to be away from home for a while, it’s crucial to maintain a steady temperature in your house. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (13°C) when you’re not around. This ensures that the temperature in your home stays above freezing and reduces the risk of your pipes freezing.
Seal Gaps and Cracks
Cold air can sneak into your home through small gaps or cracks in the walls or around windows and doors. These openings may not seem significant, but they can allow cold air to reach your pipes, especially if they’re located along exterior walls. Sealing these gaps with caulk or weather stripping helps to keep the warmth in and the cold out, reducing the chances of your pipes freezing.
Let Faucets Drip
On extremely cold nights, letting faucets drip can help prevent freezing. A small, steady flow of water helps keep the water moving through the pipes, preventing it from sitting still long enough to freeze. This is especially important for faucets located on exterior walls.
Open Cabinet Doors
Pipes under sinks—especially those in kitchens and bathrooms—can freeze if they’re located near exterior walls. One easy fix is to open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. If you have sinks on exterior walls, leave the cabinet doors open overnight to help prevent freezing.
Winterizing Your Outdoor Plumbing
Outdoor plumbing is particularly vulnerable during the winter months because it’s exposed to the elements. Taking the time to properly winterize your outdoor plumbing will protect it from freezing, bursting, and other damage caused by the cold.
Disconnect and Drain Hoses
Before the first frost, disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor spigots. Leave them to drain completely before storing them in a dry location. Hoses that are left attached to outdoor faucets can trap water, which will freeze and expand, potentially damaging both the hose and the faucet.
Shut Off Exterior Water Valves
Locate the shut-off valve for your outdoor faucets, which is typically inside your home, near the area where the faucet connects to the plumbing. Turn off the water supply to the outdoor spigots, then drain any water left inside the pipes. This will prevent water from freezing inside the pipes and causing them to crack or burst.
Insulate Outdoor Faucets
Outdoor faucets are especially vulnerable during the winter. You can purchase faucet covers or insulated pipe sleeves to help protect these areas from freezing temperatures. These covers are easy to install and inexpensive but can save you from the costly repairs associated with frozen or cracked outdoor plumbing.
Check Your Sprinkler System
If you have an irrigation system, it’s essential to properly winterize it before the cold weather hits. This usually involves draining the water from the sprinkler system and blowing out the pipes with compressed air to prevent water from freezing inside the lines. If you’re unsure how to do this, consider hiring a professional to ensure your system is adequately prepared for the cold.
Winter Plumbing Maintenance Checklist
Regular maintenance is key to preventing plumbing problems during the winter months. Here’s a checklist to help you stay on top of plumbing tasks before the cold sets in:
- Inspect Your Water Heater: In winter, your water heater works overtime. Check for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or sediment buildup. Flushing the tank annually helps it run more efficiently and improves its lifespan.
- Check for Pipe Leaks: Small leaks can lead to big problems in the winter. Inspect exposed pipes for signs of drips, leaks, or cracks. If you find any issues, make repairs before the temperatures drop too low.
- Test Your Sump Pump: If you live in an area with a basement or crawl space, make sure your sump pump is in good working condition. Test it by filling the pit with a bit of water and ensuring it turns on automatically. This can prevent flooding caused by melting snow or heavy rains.
- Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which may cause water to back up into your home. Clear any debris from your gutters and downspouts before the snow and ice start accumulating. Consider installing leaf guards to prevent debris buildup.
- Check Your Plumbing Fixtures: Leaky faucets or running toilets can waste water and energy. Test all plumbing fixtures in your home to ensure they’re functioning correctly. Replace any worn-out washers or seals, and tighten any loose connections.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
Despite your best efforts, pipes can still freeze, especially during extremely cold weather. Here’s what to do if you suspect that one of your pipes is frozen:
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
The first thing you should do is turn off the main water valve to stop the flow of water. This will prevent flooding in case the pipe bursts after thawing.
Step 2: Thaw the Pipe Slowly
Once the water supply is turned off, use a hair dryer, space heater, or heat lamp to gently thaw the frozen pipe. Start at the faucet end and work your way back toward the frozen section. Never use an open flame or blowtorch to thaw pipes, as this can cause the pipe to burst.
Step 3: Open Faucets
As the pipe begins to thaw, open the faucet connected to it. This allows water to flow out once the ice melts, reducing pressure on the pipe and preventing further freezing.
Step 4: Call a Professional Plumber
If you can’t locate the frozen pipe or if you’re unable to thaw it yourself, it’s best to call a plumber. They have the expertise and equipment to locate and safely thaw frozen pipes without causing damage.
Handling Burst Pipes and Water Damage
If a pipe bursts, the resulting damage can be devastating. Water damage can ruin flooring, walls, and furniture, and can even lead to structural damage in severe cases. Here’s how to handle a burst pipe emergency:
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply
Immediately turn off your main water valve to stop the water flow. This is the first step to prevent further damage.
Step 2: Call a Plumber
Contact a licensed plumber right away to repair the burst pipe. The sooner the plumber arrives, the less chance there is of additional damage.
Step 3: Mitigate Water Damage
While waiting for the plumber, use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up as much water as possible. Move furniture and valuable items out of the affected area to prevent further damage.
Step 4: File an Insurance Claim
If the water damage is significant, contact your home insurance provider to file a claim. Many policies cover water damage from burst pipes, but it’s important to act quickly to ensure you’re properly reimbursed.
Winter Plumbing Myths Debunked
There are several myths about winter plumbing that can lead homeowners to make mistakes or overlook important tasks. Let’s debunk a few of the most common myths:
Myth 1: Insulating Pipes Is Expensive
Insulating your pipes is actually quite affordable, especially compared to the cost of repairing frozen or burst pipes. Foam insulation or heat tape is an inexpensive investment that can save you thousands in potential damages.
Myth 2: Pipes Only Freeze in Unheated Areas
While pipes in unheated areas are more prone to freezing, pipes in exterior walls or areas with poor circulation (even inside the home) can freeze, too. Make sure to insulate all vulnerable pipes, regardless of their location.
Myth 3: Letting Faucets Drip Will Result in High Water Bills
Letting a faucet drip on extremely cold nights is a preventive measure, and the cost of water is minimal compared to the potential damage caused by frozen pipes. In most cases, the extra water used is negligible compared to the cost of repairing burst pipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Signs that your pipes may be frozen include no water coming from the faucet, strange smells from the faucet, or frost visible on exposed pipes. Additionally, if you hear odd sounds when you turn on the tap, or if water pressure suddenly drops, these are all indicators of possible freezing.
Turn off the main water valve, thaw the pipe with a hairdryer or heater, and call a plumber if it doesn't thaw.
Yes, a slight drip helps keep water moving and prevents pipes from freezing, especially on exterior walls.
Keep gutters clean, ensure proper attic insulation and ventilation, and remove ice dams safely if they form.
Remember, if you encounter any plumbing issues that you can’t resolve on your own, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber. They’ll have the experience and tools to address the problem quickly and efficiently.
Stay warm, stay safe, and keep your plumbing in top shape this winter!