How to Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing

Freezing temperatures can cause serious plumbing damage. Follow these simple steps to help prevent your pipes from freezing during cold weather.

Indoor Pipe Protection Tips

• Check all water lines in unheated areas such as attics, garages, and crawl spaces. Insulate and wrap exposed pipes.
• Keep your home heated, even when you’re away.
• Open cabinets under sinks in kitchens and bathrooms to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
• If plumbing runs through the attic, open attic access points to improve heat circulation.
• If pipes are located in the garage, keep the garage door closed as much as possible to retain heat.

Water Flow & Faucet Tips

• Let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving and reduce the chance of freezing.

Outdoor Plumbing Preparation

• Disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor spigots to prevent freezing and pipe damage.
• Shut off water to sprinkler systems and drain the backflow preventer (PVB) if applicable.

Extreme Cold Weather Precaution

If temperatures are expected to drop below 20°F, consider shutting off your main water supply at the meter and opening faucets to drain remaining water from the system.