When temperatures drop and cold stretches linger, frozen water pipes can quickly turn into an unexpected (and expensive) headache for homeowners. The good news? A few simple checks can go a long way in preventing problems.
Here are some easy, homeowner-friendly tips to help protect your plumbing during extreme cold:
Check where your water meter is located
If your water meter is in a closet, utility room, or well pit, make sure the door stays open so warm air can circulate. Even a small amount of heat reaching this area can help prevent freezing.
Watch for early warning signs
Frozen pipes often give clues before they fully freeze. Two things to keep an eye on:
- Water that starts to look yellow or discolored
- Water temperature dropping below about 35 degrees
If you notice either, letting one faucet run at a slow, steady drip (about the width of a pencil lead) can help keep water moving and reduce the risk of freezing.
Understand where issues typically happen
Most frozen pipe problems tend to occur inside individual homes rather than underground in the street. That’s why paying attention to indoor plumbing, especially in colder or less-insulated areas, is so important during long cold snaps.
Cold weather can be tough on homes, but a little awareness now can help prevent bigger issues later. If you ever have questions about your home’s systems or winter prep, we’re always happy to help point you in the right direction.
