By Integrity Home Services
Winters are usually mild, but hard freezes do happen—and they can burst pipes in hours. Use this practical checklist to winterize your home’s plumbing system before temperatures dip.
1) Insulate Exposed Pipes
Protect lines in attics, garages, crawlspaces, and exterior walls with foam sleeves or heat cable. Don’t forget hose bibs and tankless water heater lines outside.
2) Disconnect Hoses and Install Frost-Proof Covers
Hoses trap water in the spigot and can freeze the supply line. Disconnect hoses and add insulated faucet covers before the first freeze.
3) Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold
A slow, steady drip keeps water moving and relieves pressure that causes bursting. Prioritize lines serving exterior walls and unheated spaces.
4) Open Cabinet Doors
Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to circulate warm air around supply lines, especially on exterior walls.
5) Seal Drafts
Use weatherstripping or spray foam to close gaps where cold air enters around hose bibs, sill plates, or penetrations.
6) Know Your Main Shutoff Location
In an emergency, shutting off the water quickly can prevent thousands of dollars in damage. Make sure everyone at home knows how to turn it off.
7) Prep for Power Outages
If you have a tankless water heater or a well pump, consider backup power. Keep a few gallons of water on hand and know how to drain your system if needed.
Professional Cold-Weather Inspection
We can inspect insulation, valves, hose bibs, and water heater settings to make sure your home is ready for a freeze.