Preventing Frozen Pipes: Winter Tips for Homeowners

Winter in New England can be incredibly picturesque, but it also brings the risk of frozen pipes, which can result in costly damage to your home’s plumbing system. Fortunately, with a few simple precautions and some winter know-how, you can protect your pipes from freezing temperatures.

Here are some essential tips to prevent frozen pipes and ensure your plumbing stays in excellent condition during the winter months.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes located in unheated areas of your home, such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics, are most vulnerable to freezing. To protect them:

• Pipe Insulation: Wrap these pipes with pipe insulation or use heat tape to provide an extra layer of protection.
• Seal Cracks and Openings: Seal any gaps or openings in your home’s foundation or walls that allow cold air to reach your pipes.

Keep Your Home Warm

Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature is crucial to prevent pipes from freezing. Here’s how to ensure your home stays warm:

• Heating: Keep your thermostat at a steady temperature, even when you’re away from home. It’s better to incur a slightly higher heating bill than risk frozen pipes.
• Open Cabinet Doors: In particularly cold areas of your home, like under sinks, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

Allow Faucets to Drip

When temperatures plummet, allowing your faucets to drip slowly can help prevent pipes from freezing. Here’s why this works:

• Running Water: Moving water is less likely to freeze than stagnant water. Allowing a faucet to drip keeps water flowing through the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.

Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

Your outdoor hoses and faucets are highly susceptible to freezing during the winter. To protect them:

• Disconnect Hoses: Remove and store garden hoses indoors. Drain any residual water from them before storage.
• Install Faucet Covers: Install insulated faucet covers on any outdoor faucets to prevent freezing.

Know How to Shut Off the Water

In case of extreme cold or if you’re leaving your home for an extended period during winter, know how to shut off the water supply. This step can prevent catastrophic damage in the event of a burst pipe.

Professional Inspection and Maintenance

Consider scheduling a professional inspection of your plumbing system before winter arrives. A plumber can:

• Identify Vulnerabilities: A professional can identify areas of your plumbing system that may be particularly vulnerable to freezing.
• Insulate and Seal: They can add insulation where needed and ensure all pipes are properly sealed.
• Check Heating: A plumber can inspect your heating system to ensure it’s functioning optimally, which is essential for keeping your home warm.

By taking these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes during New England’s harsh winters. Remember that a little preparation goes a long way in safeguarding your plumbing system and ensuring a comfortable and stress-free winter season in your home.