When winter arrives, even in regions with mild climates, your home’s plumbing system can still be at risk. While you are unlikely to face deep freezes, short cold snaps can still cause expensive and inconvenient problems especially if your plumbing is not properly maintained or prepared. Many homeowners overlook winter prep because freezing temperatures are not common, but it only takes one particularly cold night to cause a pipe to freeze, crack, or burst. The resulting water damage and repair costs can be significant, often running into thousands of dollars.
7 Winter Plumbing Tips
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Even in mild climates, temperatures can occasionally dip below freezing. Pipes in unheated areas like garages, basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls are vulnerable to freezing. Wrap these with foam pipe insulation or heat tape to protect against the cold.
2. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Inspect all windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home. Cold air seeping in can affect the temperature around your plumbing. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal up drafts and prevent localized freezing.
3. Let Faucets Drip During Cold Snaps
If there is a freeze warning, let a few faucets especially those on exterior walls drip slightly overnight. This keeps water moving through your pipes, making it less likely to freeze.
4. Keep Cabinet Doors Open
Pipes under kitchen or bathroom sinks, especially those along exterior walls, can get chilly. During particularly cold weather, leave the cabinet doors open to allow warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes.
5. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
Detach and store garden hoses and turn off outdoor water supply lines if your plumbing system allows for it. Install frost-free hose bibs if you do not already have them to reduce the risk of outdoor pipe bursts.
6. Know Your Shut-Off Valve Location
If a pipe should freeze and burst, being able to quickly shut off your home’s water supply can minimize water damage. Make sure all household members are aware of where the main shut-off valve is located and how to use it.
7. Have a Professional Plumbing Inspection
A seasonal plumbing checkup can identify potential trouble spots before they become emergencies. Many issues, such as poor insulation or minor leaks, are easy to fix but often go unnoticed.
Even if you live in a relatively temperate climate, your pipes are not immune to winter problems. A few proactive steps can protect your plumbing system and save you time, money, and stress.
Fortunately, the preventive measures are simple, affordable, and highly effective. Insulating exposed pipes, sealing air leaks, and draining outdoor faucets can all be done in a single afternoon. And practices like letting faucets drip or opening cabinet doors during temperature dips take only minutes but can make a significant difference. Acting now means avoiding costly repairs when temperatures unexpectedly drop.
As a resident of Southern California, SoCal Plumbers can suggest licensed and insured plumbing technicians. To find out more, visit https://socalplumbers.com.