Preventing Frozen Pipes: Winter Plumbing Checklist
Protect your home this winter by identifying pipes at risk of freezing. Learn which areas are most vulnerable and how to prevent frozen pipes before they cause costly damage.
Keep the cold where it belongs.
Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
Insulating exposed pipes is one of the most effective ways to prevent freezing. Foam pipe sleeves, heat tape, or pipe insulation wrap can significantly reduce the risk of cold-weather damage. Focus on pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, crawl spaces, and along exterior walls.
- Foam sleeves: Easy to install around most standard pipes for added protection.
- Heat tape or cable: Provides active warmth for especially vulnerable sections during extreme cold.
Keep your home warm to protect your pipes.
Maintain Consistent Heat
One of the simplest ways to prevent frozen pipes is to maintain a steady temperature throughout your home, even when you’re away. Avoid turning the heat down too low, especially in rooms with vulnerable plumbing. Warm air circulating around pipes reduces the risk of freezing, helping you avoid costly repairs and water damage during the coldest months.
A slow drip can prevent major damage.
Let Faucets Drip
Allowing faucets connected to vulnerable pipes to drip slightly during extreme cold helps prevent freezing. Moving water, even at a trickle, reduces pressure buildup inside the pipes, which is what causes bursts when water freezes. This simple step can save homeowners from costly repairs and water damage.
In addition, letting both hot and cold taps drip ensures that the water system remains active throughout the house. Combine this with other preventative measures like insulation and consistent heat for the best protection.
- Cold water taps
- Hot water taps
Stop cold air from reaching your pipes.
Seal Gaps and Drafts
Pipes in basements, attics, crawl spaces, garages, and along exterior walls are the most at risk during extreme cold.
Yes, sealing gaps with caulk, spray foam, or weatherstripping helps reduce cold air exposure to pipes.
Yes, opening cabinets under sinks allows warmer indoor air to circulate around exposed pipes, reducing freeze risk.
Keep the thermostat set to at least 55°F, let faucets drip, and consider shutting off and draining outdoor or unused water lines.