Washington winters bring freezing temperatures that can damage plumbing. Homeowners need to protect their pipes from freezing, which can cause bursts and expensive repairs. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® in Redmond, WA, shares this guide to help prepare your plumbing for winter.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Exposed pipes can freeze, especially in unheated areas like the basement, attic, garage, or crawl spaces. Pipe insulation is the most effective way to prevent freezing and protect the integrity of your plumbing. There are multiple options.

  • Polyethylene foam insulation
  • Black nitrile
  • Fiberglass
  • Phenolic
  • Elastomeric
  • Mineral wool

Heat tape is also a good option for Washington homes. It is especially beneficial in frigid temperatures. The tape turns on automatically when the temperature drops below freezing. It keeps the pipes warm enough to prevent freezing.

Seal Gaps and Cracks

During the winter, cold air can enter your home through small cracks, causing your plumbing to freeze. The most vulnerable areas are around windows and doors. Pay careful attention to the under-sink areas or where pipes enter your home.

You can seal these areas with expanding foam or caulk. Sealing these openings will create a more stable space, preventing cold outdoor air from entering your home and causing issues with your plumbing.

Maintain a Consistent Indoor Temperature

Even if you are away, your home needs heating. Set your thermostat to a minimum of 55°. This is an ideal temperature to prevent freezing pipes without wasting energy heating an empty house.

Smart thermostats can make managing your home's temperature easier. You can control the temperature remotely, making it simple to make adjustments.

Drain Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation Systems

Outdoor plumbing is highly susceptible to freezing. Start by disconnecting all outdoor hoses. Leaving hoses connected can cause the residual water inside to freeze and burst the hose or cause damage to the hose bib.

Next, shut off the outdoor water supply. Make sure to open the faucet to drain any residual water.

You should also consider installing insulated covers. Place foam or insulated covers over outdoor faucets to provide an extra layer of protection against the cold.

Open Cabinet Doors

Pipes located under sinks, especially near the outer walls, are at risk of freezing during the winter. It helps to open your cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. It is beneficial to open the doors during the night, when temperatures usually drop lower.

Let Faucets Drip

Allowing faucets to drip slightly can prevent freezing water in the pipes. Choose the faucets connected to hoses coming from the exterior walls. Drip both the hot and cold sides. Doing so keeps water circulating through all the pipes.

You should also monitor your water usage. Although this method requires additional water usage, it's a small price to pay for preventing water damage from freezing.

Install a Whole-House Leak Detection System

Early detection of leaks can prevent extensive water damage in your home. When pipes freeze, the expansion process can lead to bursting, which causes water to infiltrate your home.

Installing smart leak detectors ensures you receive alerts if a leak occurs. Even with leak detection systems in place, it is still essential to monitor the condition of your plumbing. Periodically check for signs of pipe damage or leaking water.

Prepare for Extended Absences

If you are planning to be away during the winter, you need to take special precautions to protect your plumbing. It's wise to shut off the main water supply to your home to prevent any leaks from occurring. After shutting off the water, turn on every faucet to drain any leftover water in the pipes.

It's also important to winterize your water appliances. Drain dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters. Draining will protect them from freezing and being damaged.

Use Non-Toxic Antifreeze in Floor Drains

Floor drains can trap water, which can freeze and cause damage. Frozen water in the drain can cause pipe damage, leading to leaks and water backups in your home.

It's essential to choose the correct antifreeze for your home. Make sure to use non-toxic antifreeze. You may consider propylene glycol, which is safe for residential plumbing systems.

Maintenance and Inspection

Regular maintenance is the first step to preventing frozen pipes. Homeowners in Washington should check every part of their plumbing. Skipping inspections leaves your home at risk. Pipes and systems in good condition handle extreme cold much better.

Schedule Annual Plumbing Inspections

Professional inspections are one of the best defenses against winter plumbing emergencies. A licensed plumber can spot worn-out seals, loose fittings, or corroded pipes that may crack under pressure.

A plumber will check your water pressure, examine your water heater, and test the sump pump. These checks make sure your plumbing is ready for winter.

Check Your Water Heater

Your water heater works overtime in cold weather. Ensure the temperature setting is set correctly, typically at around 120°. Drain sediment from the tank once or twice a year to extend its lifespan and improve efficiency. If your water heater is more than 10 years old, consider planning for a replacement before it fails during a cold snap.

Monitor Your Sump Pump

In many Washington homes, the sump pump plays a critical role in preventing basement flooding when snow melts. Test your sump pump before winter storms arrive by pouring water into the pit and confirming that it activates. Ensure the discharge line is clear of debris and properly insulated to prevent freezing when temperatures drop.

Keep an Eye on Water Pressure

Sudden drops in water pressure often indicate that ice is forming inside pipes. If you notice a weak flow from a faucet during a cold spell, act immediately. Call a professional if your water pressure does not resolve quickly. Catching the issue early can stop a frozen pipe from bursting.

Develop a Winter-Ready Checklist

Homeowners can make a simple seasonal checklist. Include tasks like sealing gaps, testing the sump pump, insulating pipes, and scheduling a professional inspection. Following this routine helps prevent missed issues and keeps your plumbing ready for winter.

Know When to Call for Professional Help

Certain plumbing problems need fast professional attention. Don’t ignore frost on pipes, unusual drain odors, or banging noises from the water heater. Calling a plumber quickly can stop a small issue from turning into a serious winter emergency.

Keep Your Plumbing Protected All Winter

Washington winters test every part of your plumbing system. Preparing early helps prevent frozen pipes and costly repairs. Insulation, sealing, drainage, and steady heating each play a part in keeping your system safe. Regular checks and professional services help prevent minor issues from escalating into emergencies.

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® installs, maintains, and repairs all plumbing components, including pipes, water heaters, and sump pumps. Our team knows how to protect Washington homes during the coldest months.

Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® today to schedule service in Redmond, and keep your plumbing ready for winter.