Arctic weather is in the near forecast, according to the National Weather Service, and frigid temperatures can lead to water line breaks or leaks (If you experience any service line breaks or leaks, please contact MDS to isolate the line at (281) 290-6500).
Preventative measures can protect your property, improve energy efficiency, and help you avoid costly repairs. Here are some practical ways to get your home “Winter Ready”:
Winter Pipe Protection
Taking preventive action before the first hard freeze can save time, money, and frustration later. Here’s what you need to know about why pipes freeze, how to protect them, and what to do if one does.
Understanding Why Pipes Freeze
When temperatures fall below freezing, the water inside pipes can solidify. As it freezes, water expands and creates pressure inside the pipe walls. If the pressure becomes too great, the pipe can crack or burst—sometimes in multiple locations.
The risk is highest for:
- Outdoor spigots and garden hose connections
- Pipes in unheated areas like attics, garages, basements, and crawl spaces
- Pipes running along exterior walls where insulation is minimal
- Vacant homes where heating systems are turned down or off
Even a small crack from a frozen pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water once thawed. This not only causes damage inside your home but also increases demand on the local water supply and wastewater systems.
Indoor Pipe Protection Tips
Inside your home, simple steps can prevent freezing:
- Insulate exposed pipes — Wrap pipes with foam sleeves or fiberglass insulation, especially in areas like under sinks, along outside walls, or in unheated basements.
- Keep cabinet doors open — On particularly cold nights, open the doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
- Allow a small trickle of water — Running water, even at a slow drip, can help prevent freezing by keeping water moving through the pipes.
- Maintain a consistent indoor temperature — Keep your thermostat set no lower than 55°F, even if you’re leaving home for a few days.
- Seal drafts and leaks — Use caulk or insulation to seal gaps around windows, doors, and wall penetrations where cold air can enter near pipes.
Outdoor Plumbing and Yard Preparation
Outdoor plumbing and irrigation systems are especially vulnerable to cold weather:
- Disconnect and drain garden hoses — Leaving hoses attached can trap water inside outdoor faucets, causing them to burst.
- Install faucet covers — Insulated covers or wrap-around insulation materials provide an extra layer of protection for outdoor spigots.
- Locate and insulate your backflow preventer — If your irrigation system has one, ensure it’s drained and properly protected from freezing.
Winterize Your Sprinkler System
- Contact a licensed irrigation or plumbing professional for thorough winterization.
- Turn off the water and timer, fully drain lines, and insulate exposed parts such as backflow preventers and valves, making sure not to block vents or drains.
Prepare Pool Equipment
- Consult a certified pool maintenance technician for guidance.
- Depending on the weather, your professional may recommend fully shutting down, insulating, and winterizing your pool or running the equipment through winter to keep water moving.
What To Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you turn on a faucet and only a small trickle of water comes out, it could mean a pipe is frozen.
Here’s what to do:
- Keep the faucet open — As the frozen section begins to melt, running water will help thaw it faster.
- Apply gentle heat — Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towel. Start warming the pipe near the faucet and work back toward the frozen section.
- Never use open flames — Torches, lighters, or gas heaters are dangerous and can cause fires.
- If you can’t find the frozen area, call a licensed plumber — They can safely thaw the pipe and check for damage.
If you experience any service line breaks or leaks, please contact MDS to isolate the line at (281) 290-6500.
Protecting Vacant or Seasonal Homes
If you plan to travel or own a property that won’t be occupied this winter:
- • Contact your operator, MDS to shut off the main water supply and drain all pipes by running faucets and flushing toilets.
- Leave cabinet doors open and set the thermostat to at least 55°F.
- Ask a trusted neighbor or caretaker to periodically check the property, especially during extended cold spells.
By taking steps to insulate, drain, and protect your plumbing, you help:
- Reduce unnecessary water loss
- Preserve steady water pressure for fire protection and household use
- Preventing flooding and contamination risks
Clean Gutters and Inspect the Roof
- Remove leaves and debris from gutters to ensure proper water flow and prevent ice dams that can lead to water damage.
- Check the roof for damaged or missing shingles.
- Trim any overhanging branches to reduce the risk of breakage from ice or wind during storms.
More Preventative Measures
Seal Gaps Around Doors and Windows
- Inspect doors and windows for drafts and use weatherstripping or caulk to close any gaps.
- Sealing these openings helps your heating system run more efficiently and keeps your indoor spaces warmer.
Service Your Heating System
- Schedule a professional checkup for your furnace or heater.
- Replace air filters, clean ducts, and verify everything works correctly.
- Regular maintenance boosts efficiency and reduces the risk of breakdowns just when you need heat the most.
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
- Test all detectors and replace batteries as needed.
- With greater heater use during winter, keeping these safety devices working properly becomes even more crucial.
Stock Up on Winter Supplies
- Prepare for the possibility of power outages or blocked roads by keeping water, non- perishable foods, flashlights, blankets, and other essentials on hand.
- Having emergency provisions ready ensures comfort and safety during unexpected winter events.
Stay warm, stay prepared, and protect your pipes this winter.
Winterizing your plumbing system is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your home and contribute to the reliability of your community’s water system. With a few hours of preparation now, you can prevent days—or weeks—of inconvenience and expensive repairs later.
By following these steps, you’ll protect your home and ensure the comfort and safety of everyone inside. Stay warm!