Prep Your Home's Plumbing for Winter

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costly winter plumbing issues. When water freezes, it expands and can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to flooding and expensive repairs. Pipes located in unheated areas, such as basements, crawlspaces, garages, or along exterior walls, should be insulated using foam pipe sleeves or heat tape. These materials are inexpensive and widely available at your local hardware stores.

Disconnect Outdoor Hoses & Shut Off Exterior Faucets

Before the first hard freeze, all outdoor hoses should be disconnected, drained, and stored indoors. Water left inside hoses can freeze and back up into the pipe, increasing the risk of a burst. Shut off and drain exterior faucets using the shut-off valves inside the home. If your home has frost-proof spigots, these still require hoses to be disconnected in order to function properly.

Service Your Sump Pump

Winter brings fluctuating temperatures and occasional thaws. A well-maintained sump pump is essential for preventing basement flooding when snow and ice begin to melt. Check the pump pit for debris, ensure the discharge line is clear, and test the pump to make sure it activates properly.

Know the Location of Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve

In the event of a burst pipe, quickly shutting off the water supply can significantly reduce damage. Take time to locate your main water shut-off valve and ensure everyone in the household knows how to operate it.

Consider a Seasonal Plumbing Inspection

A pre-winter plumbing inspection can help identify and address potential vulnerabilities before they become costly problems. Catching issues early such as slow drains, small leaks, or inefficient water heaters, can prevent larger failures during the coldest months.