How Do You Winterize Your Home to Prevent Frozen Pipes?

Winter is coming, and while you’re cozying up with hot cocoa, your pipes might be bracing for a fight they’re not prepared for. Frosty Linwood weather can wreak havoc on plumbing, turning your pipes into icy time bombs waiting to burst.

Don’t let a winter wonderland turn into a plumbing nightmare! Winterizing your pipes isn’t just about avoiding frozen faucets—it’s about keeping the heart of your home (and your wallet) intact through the coldest months.

Whether you’re a seasoned winter warrior or a first-timer facing a freeze, this guide will show you the simple steps you can take to prevent burst pipes, leaks, and floods. So, dive in with Broadley’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to learn how to winterize your pipes before Jack Frost nips at your plumbing!

How To Winterize Pipes

One of the most critical home maintenance tasks during winter is preventing your pipes from freezing in New Jersey. Frozen pipes can lead to significant damage, including burst pipes and flooding, which can be costly and time-consuming to repair.

Here are some essential steps from our Broadley’s team to winterize your home and prevent your pipes from freezing:

1. Insulate Your Pipes

Proper insulation is the first line of defense against freezing pipes. Pipes located in unheated areas such as basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces are particularly vulnerable.

Wrap these pipes with foam pipe insulation or heat tape. For extra protection, consider using a combination of both. This insulation helps maintain the pipes’ temperature, reducing the risk of freezing.

2. Seal Cracks and Gaps

Cold air can infiltrate your Linwood home through cracks and gaps, increasing the risk of pipes freezing. Inspect your home’s exterior and seal any gaps around windows, doors, and where pipes enter the house. Use caulk or expanding foam to fill in these spaces.

Additionally, ensure your basement and crawl space windows are closed and properly sealed.

3. Keep Your Home Warm

Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature is crucial. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (13°C) even when you’re not at home. It might be tempting to lower the heat to save on energy bills, but this could put your pipes at risk.

Consider using a programmable thermostat or zone control system to maintain a steady temperature without wasting energy.

4. Open Cabinet Doors

Pipes under sinks and inside cabinets are often located against exterior walls, making them more susceptible to freezing. Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. This simple step can make a significant difference, especially during extreme cold snaps.

5. Let Faucets Drip

Allowing a slow drip from faucets, especially those connected to exposed pipes, can prevent freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and the small amount of running water can relieve pressure buildup in the pipes. This can be particularly useful during unusually cold Linwood nights or when your home is unoccupied.

6. Drain Outdoor Hoses and Faucets

Disconnect and drain garden hoses, then store them indoors for the winter. Shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain any remaining water from the pipes. Consider installing frost-free spigots or using faucet covers for added protection.

7. Install Pipe Heating Cables

For pipes in areas that are particularly prone to freezing, consider installing pipe heating cables. These cables are equipped with a thermostat that activates the heating element when the temperature drops below a certain point. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure safe installation and operation.

8. Keep Garage Doors Closed

If you have water supply lines running through your garage, keep the garage doors closed to retain heat. This is especially important if your garage is attached to your New Jersey home and shares walls with living spaces.

9. Monitor Vulnerable Areas

Regularly check areas of your home that are more likely to experience freezing, such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature in these spaces and take additional measures if needed, such as adding a space heater or increasing insulation.

10. Prepare for Emergencies

Despite all precautions, it’s essential to be prepared for emergencies. Know the location of your main water shut-off valve and ensure it’s in working order. Shutting off the water supply quickly can minimize damage in the event of a pipe burst. Keep a plumber’s contact information handy for emergency repairs.

Winterize Your Pipes With Broadley’s

By following these winterization steps, you can protect your Linwood, NJ home from the costly and disruptive effects of frozen pipes. Taking the time to prepare now can save you from the headache and expense of dealing with burst pipes later.

For more information about winterization services, call Broadley’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning at 609-875-2756 or request service online. Our plumbers are available after hours and on weekends for a plumbing emergency.

Stay warm and enjoy a worry-free winter season!