How to Winterize a House Plumbing

The magic of winter’s snow-covered landscapes and holiday festivities brings a sense of wonder. Yet, for homeowners, the dropping temperatures come with a set of concerns—especially when it comes to plumbing systems. The nightmare of frozen pipes can quickly become a reality. Luckily, winterizing your plumbing acts like a warm winter coat, providing protection against the cold. In this comprehensive guide by R.S. Andrews, we’ll walk you through the steps of effectively winterizing your plumbing, ensuring a smooth and worry-free winter.

1. Drain the System

A thorough draining of your entire plumbing system is a cornerstone of winterization. Start by switching off the main water valve, then proceed to open all the faucets in your home, both interior and exterior. For homes with multiple levels, initiate the draining process from the top floor and systematically work your way down. Appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines also need to be emptied. Run them through an empty cycle to ensure they are void of any water. This is critical as even a small amount of standing water can lead to potential freezing and subsequent damage.

2. Insulate the Pipes 

For insulating pipes, especially those in colder areas like basements or crawl spaces, use specialized foam pipe insulation as the first layer. After wrapping the foam insulation around the pipes, reinforce it with fiberglass insulation for an added layer of warmth. Finally, secure everything using weather-resistant duct tape. The goal is to create a multi-layered insulation system to maximize the protection against extreme cold.

3. Eliminate Cold Drafts

Sealing off drafts is more than just a quick fix; it requires a strategic approach. Conduct a thorough audit of your home’s thermal envelope, paying special attention to the basement, crawl spaces, and attic. Use silicone-based caulk for sealing smaller gaps and cracks, and expandable foam insulation for larger openings. Proper sealing can also reduce your heating bills by preventing heat loss.

4. Check Outdoor Faucets

Outdoor faucets are extremely vulnerable to winter elements. Begin by detaching and draining any hoses. If your outdoor faucets have dedicated shut-off valves, use them. Turn off the valve and then open the faucet to let any trapped water escape. Invest in insulating faucet covers as an additional precaution. These covers add an extra layer of insulation and are a cost-effective way to prevent frozen faucets.

5. Maintain Consistent Heating

When you’re away from home during the winter months, it’s important to maintain a consistent indoor temperature to avoid any potential freezing of pipes. Invest in a smart thermostat that allows you to remotely control the temperature. Keep the thermostat set to at least 55°F (13°C) and check it periodically to ensure it’s functioning correctly.

6. Call for Professional Inspection

In addition to your DIY efforts, consider hiring a professional for an in-depth winterization inspection, especially if your home is older or has had plumbing issues in the past. Experts can utilize thermal imaging to spot hidden cold zones and can test the system’s pressure to detect any vulnerabilities. Recommendations for repair or additional insulation can be provided, ensuring that you enter the winter season with peace of mind and a winter-ready plumbing system.

Why Winterizing Matters

More than just a seasonal task, winterizing your plumbing is your defense against potential costly disasters:

Guarding Against Frozen Pipes: The freezing of water inside pipes can lead to pipe bursts, causing significant damage and expenses to repair.

Avoiding the Expense of Repairs: Burst pipes mean more than just water damage; they lead to expensive repairs. Winterizing prevents unexpected financial burdens.

Preserving Your Water Supply: Frozen pipes can disrupt your water supply, leaving you without water during the coldest months of the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to use antifreeze as a method for winterizing my home’s plumbing system? 

Indeed, antifreeze can be a viable option for winterizing your plumbing. However, it’s imperative that you opt for a non-toxic variety specifically formulated for use in residential plumbing systems. We strongly recommend consulting with a qualified plumbing professional to guide you through proper application procedures and to ensure that you’re using the most appropriate products for your system.

Do some types of pipes require extra attention during the winterization process? 

Yes, absolutely. Pipes that are situated in areas of your home without heating—like attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls—are particularly vulnerable to freezing. It is advisable to concentrate your winterization efforts on insulating these more exposed pipes to ensure they receive optimal protection from cold temperatures.

Is it still necessary to winterize my plumbing if I live in a region with milder winters? 

Winterizing is advisable even in climates that are typically mild. The reason being, unexpected cold weather can occur, and when it does, unprepared pipes can freeze. It’s always better to be proactive in your maintenance practices than to deal with the often costly and inconvenient aftermath of frozen pipes.

Can I take care of winterizing my plumbing myself, or is it better to enlist the services of a professional? 

While it’s possible to manage some elements of winterizing your plumbing system yourself, such as insulating pipes, it’s generally best to engage the services of a skilled professional for more involved tasks like draining your plumbing lines or servicing complex systems. Hiring an expert ensures a comprehensive winterization process and mitigates the risks associated with overlooking important details.

Your Trusted Plumbing Partner: R.S. Andrews

Winterizing your plumbing is a comprehensive but essential task. While DIY efforts can provide a level of protection, having a trusted partner like R.S. Andrews ensures that no detail is overlooked. Our experienced plumbing team offers thorough assessments, professional advice, and services tailored to the unique needs of your home.

As winter settles in, take action now to shield your plumbing from potential surprises. Comprehensive winterization is your best defense against unforeseen plumbing issues during the colder months. With diligence and the unmatched expertise of R.S. Andrews, you can welcome winter with confidence, knowing that your home is fortified against the chill. Contact us today to learn more and ensure a worry-free winter for your plumbing system.