By Matt Naylor, Licensed Master Plumber at Beehive Plumbing
As winter approaches, homeowners should take proactive steps to protect their plumbing systems from the cold weather. Winterizing your plumbing now will help you avoid costly repairs and inconvenient disruptions later.
Here’s what you need to know to prepare your home’s plumbing for the colder months ahead.
No.1: Blow Out Sprinkler Systems
One of the most important tasks to tackle before winter is blowing out your sprinkler system. If water is left in the pipes, it can freeze and expand, leading to burst pipes and significant damage.
- Why It Matters: When water freezes inside the sprinkler pipes, it expands, causing cracks or bursts in the lines. In the spring, you’ll be faced with costly repairs and water damage to your lawn.
- What to Do: Hire a professional to blow out your sprinkler system using compressed air. This ensures all water is removed from the pipes, preventing freezing and damage.
No. 2: Disconnect Hoses from Outdoor Spigots
Leaving hoses attached to outdoor spigots during the winter can lead to frozen pipes, which may cause them to burst.
The simple task of disconnecting your hoses can save you from dealing with major plumbing issues.
- Why It Matters: When temperatures drop, any water left in the hose or spigot can freeze, back up into the pipes, and crack or burst.
- What to Do: Before the first freeze, disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor spigots. Consider installing insulated faucet covers for added protection.
No. 3: Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes that are exposed to the cold–in basements, attics, or crawl spaces, for example–are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Insulating these pipes can prevent them from freezing and bursting.
- Why It Matters: Frozen pipes not only disrupt your water supply but also pose a risk of bursting, which can lead to significant water damage.
- What to Do: Use pipe insulation or heat tape to wrap any exposed pipes in unheated areas. Focus on areas that are most vulnerable to freezing temperatures.
No. 4: Check for Leaks
A small leak in your plumbing system can become a much bigger problem during winter. Cold weather can worsen existing leaks, leading to more severe damage and costly repairs.
- Why It Matters: Unnoticed leaks can freeze during winter, leading to burst pipes and water damage.
- What to Do: Before winter sets in, inspect your home for any leaks, especially around faucets, outdoor spigots, and exposed pipes. Repair any leaks to prevent freezing.
No. 5: Prepare Indoor Plumbing
Don’t forget about your indoor plumbing when winterizing your home. While outdoor faucets and pipes are at the most risk, indoor plumbing can also be affected by freezing temperatures.
- Why It Matters: Frozen indoor pipes can lead to major water damage if they burst.
- What to Do: Keep your home’s temperature above 55°F, even if you’re away, to ensure indoor pipes don’t freeze. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
A Few Preventive Steps Can Save You Big
Taking time in the fall to prepare your home’s plumbing for winter can prevent costly repairs and damage. Blowing out sprinkler systems, disconnecting hoses, and insulating pipes are all simple steps that protect your home from the winter chill. Don’t wait until it’s too late—winterize your plumbing now and enjoy peace of mind all season long.
For help with winter plumbing preparation, reach out to Beehive Plumbing. Our experts are here to help with whatever winter brings!
