1. Insulate Your Pipes to Prevent Freezing

Frozen pipes are one of the most common (and costly) plumbing problems in winter. When the temperature drops, the water inside your pipes can freeze and expand, causing pipes to burst and leading to major water damage. The good news? You can easily prevent this!

Tip:

• Insulate exposed pipes in areas like the attic, basement, or garage using foam pipe insulation or heat tape. It’s an affordable way to keep your pipes warm and safe.
• Seal any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, or where pipes enter the home to block out drafts that can cause pipes to freeze.
• When temperatures drop, let your faucets drip just a little. It keeps the water moving, preventing pressure from building up inside the pipes.

2. Maintain Your Water Heater

Winter means your water heater is working harder than ever. So, it’s important to give it some attention before it starts to show signs of wear. Regular maintenance will keep your hot water flowing and help prevent those annoying cold showers.

Tip:

• Flush your tank once a year to clear out any sediment buildup that can affect performance. Sediment can reduce the efficiency of the heater and lead to potential damage.
• Check the temperature setting on your water heater. The ideal temperature is around 120°F to prevent overheating and energy waste.
• Check for leaks around the water heater. Leaks can worsen during freezing temperatures, so addressing them early is key.

3. Seal Off Drafts and Cold Spots

Cold drafts and unsealed spots in your home can make your pipes more vulnerable to freezing. Keeping your home cozy can also help reduce the risk of plumbing problems.

Tip:

• Use weatherstripping around windows and doors to seal gaps. This helps keep the cold air out and the warm air in.
• Install foam or fiberglass insulation in areas with exposed pipes, especially in areas that are susceptible to drafts.
• Check your attic and basement for cold spots that could put your pipes at risk. If you find any, a little extra insulation can go a long way!

4. Don’t Forget the Garage!

If your garage has exposed pipes—whether it’s water lines to outdoor faucets or your water heater—it’s important to keep that space as warm as possible. A chilly garage can turn into a frozen-pipe nightmare.

Tip:

• Keep your garage door closed during extremely cold weather to maintain warmth inside.
• Consider adding some temporary heating, like a space heater, to keep the temperature up in areas with exposed pipes.
• Insulate garage pipes to help protect them from freezing temperatures.

5. Protect Outdoor Faucets and Hoses

Outdoor faucets are especially vulnerable to freezing in winter. If you forget to disconnect hoses or winterize your faucets, you could face a costly repair come spring.

Tip:

• Disconnect garden hoses and store them in a shed or garage. Water left in the hose can freeze and create pressure that could damage your faucet.
• Shut off the outdoor water supply to prevent frozen pipes in the winter.
• Install faucet covers or insulated wraps around outdoor faucets to protect them from the cold.

6. Know Your Water Shutoff Valve

In the unfortunate event that you experience a burst pipe or leak, knowing where your main water shutoff valve is located can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. You don’t want to be scrambling to find it when water’s flooding your basement!

• Locate your shutoff valve—it’s usually found in the basement or near your water meter.
• Test it to make sure it works. It’s always good to know it’s in top shape before an emergency arises.

7. Fix Leaks Now—Before Winter Gets Worse

Leaky pipes can be a problem any time of year, but they’re especially troublesome in winter. If left unchecked, leaks can freeze, expand, and cause even more damage.

Tip:

• Inspect your pipes for signs of leaks, such as damp spots or water stains on your walls or ceilings.
• Fix leaks immediately—even small ones can become big problems when temperatures drop.
• Check your faucets for any drips, and replace washers if necessary.

8. Clear Your Drains and Gutters

Clogged drains and gutters can cause major plumbing problems in winter, especially when snow begins to melt. Water backing up in your gutters or drains can freeze and lead to bigger issues down the road.

Tip:

• Clean your gutters before the first snowfall to ensure proper drainage.
• Clear out any blockages in your drains. If you’ve had any slow drains during the year, now’s the time to deal with them!
• Use a drain snake or drain cleaner to keep everything flowing smoothly.

9. Consider a Plumbing Inspection

If you’ve had plumbing issues in the past, or just want peace of mind, a plumbing inspection before the cold weather hits is a great idea. A professional plumber can identify potential risks and fix them before they turn into major problems. Here, at Shelby Mechanical, we offer free estimates!

• Schedule a plumbing inspection to check for hidden issues or vulnerabilities in your pipes. This can save you money in the long run by preventing unexpected repairs.