How to Prepare Your Home’s Pipes for Winter

Winterizing Your Plumbing

The cold season brings cozy moments, but it also carries the risk of costly frozen pipes. Taking proactive steps to winterize your home’s plumbing system is essential to prevent extensive water damage and the need for emergency pipe repair.

A person wearing grey work gloves is placing grey foam insulation around an exposed copper pipe against a brick wall. Two rolls of foam insulation and a utility knife are visible on the concrete floor.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Any exposed water pipes, especially those in unheated areas like crawl spaces, garages, or attics, need proper insulation. Use foam pipe sleeves or heat tape to wrap vulnerable lines. This small investment can provide significant protection, drastically reducing the chance of a burst pipe and ensuring smooth operation throughout the winter.

A person wearing grey work gloves is unscrewing a green garden hose from an outdoor spigot attached to a light brick wall. The grass and concrete foundation are visible below.

Disconnect and Drain Hoses

Before the first hard freeze, it is critical to disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor spigots. If left attached, water trapped inside the hose can freeze, expanding back into the spigot and the internal piping. After disconnecting, drain the remaining water from the spigot and consider closing the internal shut-off valve for added security.

A close-up of a modern white digital thermostat displaying 60°F, mounted on a light-colored wall. The background is blurred, showing a comfortable living space with a chair and lamp, indicating the house is heated.

Keep the Heat Flowing

During extreme cold snaps, keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees, even if you are away. For areas containing water lines, such as under sinks or in utility closets, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate. A little indoor warmth goes a long way toward protecting water lines and avoiding expensive calls to a local plumber.

A person wearing work gloves is pointing to a brass main water shutoff valve with a red handle in a basement. Copper piping and a stone foundation are visible in the background, near a water heater.

Locate Your Water Main

In the event that a pipe does freeze and burst, quick action is key to minimizing damage. You must know the exact location of your main water shutoff valve. If you suspect a burst pipe, turning off the water immediately will stop the flow and limit the devastating impact of water pooling in your walls or basement.

 

Professional Support is Key

Winterizing your home provides peace of mind, but if you do experience frozen pipes or need professional inspection, Watson’s Plumbing, Heating & Building Services, Inc. is here to help. Contact our experienced team today for comprehensive plumbing services and reliable support in the Manhattan/Bronx area.

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