How to Winterize Your Home’s Plumbing System

As winter approaches, it’s essential to ensure your home’s plumbing is protected from freezing temperatures and potential damage. Winterizing your plumbing can save you from costly repairs and keep your home running smoothly. Trahan’s Heating & Cooling, serving Houma, Larose, and Berwick, shares expert tips on how to get your plumbing system ready for the colder months.

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, garages, and attics, are more vulnerable to freezing. Use foam pipe insulation to wrap the pipes and keep them insulated against the cold.

Expert Tip: Pay special attention to pipes near exterior walls or crawl spaces, where cold drafts can increase the risk of freezing.

2. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Leaving hoses connected to outdoor faucets during winter can cause water to freeze inside the hose or faucet, leading to a burst pipe. Disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses before the cold weather hits.

Expert Tip: Install frost-proof hose bibs for extra protection against freezing temperatures.

3. Shut Off Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems

Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems before winter. Drain any remaining water to prevent freezing in the pipes or sprinkler lines, which could lead to serious damage.

Expert Tip: Use an indoor shutoff valve to cut off the water supply to outdoor fixtures, and leave the outdoor faucet open to allow any remaining water to drain out.

4. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Inspect areas where plumbing pipes enter or exit the home, including walls and floors. Seal any gaps or cracks with caulking or foam insulation to block cold air from entering and reduce the risk of freezing pipes.

Expert Tip: Focus on basements and garages, where cold air drafts are more likely to impact plumbing.

5. Keep Indoor Pipes Warm

During especially cold weather, keep indoor pipes warm by opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. Keeping your thermostat at a consistent temperature, even at night, can also help prevent frozen pipes.

Expert Tip: Allowing a small trickle of water to flow from faucets can help keep pipes from freezing, as moving water is less likely to freeze.

6. Drain Water Heater if Unused for Long Periods

If you’re leaving your home for an extended period during the winter, consider draining your water heater to prevent freezing and potential damage. This is especially important if the home won’t be heated during your absence.

Expert Tip: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for draining your water heater, or contact a professional to ensure it’s done properly.

7. Know How to Shut Off Your Water

In case of a plumbing emergency like a burst pipe, knowing how to quickly shut off your home’s water supply is crucial. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the main water shutoff valve is located.

Expert Tip: Test your shutoff valve to ensure it works properly before winter sets in, and replace it if necessary.

8. Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection

A professional plumbing inspection can identify any weak spots in your system and ensure your pipes are well-protected from the cold. Trahan’s Heating & Cooling offers comprehensive plumbing inspections to help you avoid winter plumbing issues.

Expert Tip: Regular maintenance and inspections can help catch potential problems early and keep your plumbing system in top condition year-round.

Stay Protected This Winter with Trahan’s Heating & Cooling

Winterizing your plumbing is essential to protect your home from freezing pipes and costly repairs. Trahan’s Heating & Cooling is here to help with expert plumbing services. Contact us at (985) 206-8073 or click here to schedule an inspection or to learn more about how we can keep your plumbing system safe this winter.