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Prevent Frozen Pipes: A Winter Plumbing Guide
As temperatures drop, your home’s plumbing system becomes vulnerable to freezing and costly damage. Frozen pipes can burst, leading to water damage, expensive repairs, and major inconvenience. Fortunately, a little preparation can go a long way in protecting your plumbing during the winter months. Here’s how to get your system ready—and when it’s best to call a professional plumbing service.
Why Freezing Temperatures Are a Risk for Plumbing
When water freezes, it expands. If water inside your pipes freezes, the pressure can cause pipes to crack or burst. This often happens in unheated or poorly insulated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, garages, exterior walls, and outdoor plumbing lines. Once temperatures rise and the ice melts, water can quickly flood your home.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
One of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is insulation. Foam pipe insulation sleeves are affordable and easy to install. Pay special attention to pipes in unheated areas and those that run along exterior walls. For added protection during extreme cold, heat tape or heat cables can help keep pipes warm.
Disconnect & Protect Outdoor Plumbing
Outdoor faucets and hoses are especially vulnerable to freezing. Disconnect garden hoses, drain them completely, and store them indoors. Shut off the water supply to exterior faucets if possible, and open the faucet to allow any remaining water to drain. Installing frost-proof hose bibs or faucet covers adds another layer of protection.
Keep Water Moving During Extreme Cold
When temperatures drop well below freezing, allowing faucets to drip slightly can help prevent pipes from freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water. Focus on faucets connected to pipes that run along exterior walls.
Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperatures
Even if you’re away from home, keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature. Sudden drops in indoor heat increase the risk of frozen pipes. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing, especially in kitchens and bathrooms on exterior walls.
Seal Drafts & Air Leaks
Cold air entering your home can quickly chill pipes. Seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home. Weather stripping and caulking are simple fixes that help keep cold air out and warm air in.
Know When to Call a Professional Plumbing Service
If you’ve experienced frozen pipes before, have an older plumbing system, or live in an area prone to extreme winter weather, it’s wise to schedule a preventative inspection. A professional plumbing service can identify vulnerable areas, recommend upgrades, and ensure your system is winter-ready.
Prepare Now to Avoid Costly Repairs Later
Taking steps to prepare your plumbing for freezing temperatures can save you from expensive repairs and water damage. With proper insulation, preventative measures, and help from a trusted plumbing service when needed, you can enjoy peace of mind all winter long.
Luckily, the team at Queen Plumbing LLC is here to help. We have years of experience in providing top-quality plumbing services to homeowners in and around the Seattle, WA area. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a service, feel free to give our team a call. We look forward to assisting you!
