A single burst pipe can cause $5,000 to $70,000 in water damage according to insurance industry data. Winterizing your pipes takes about two hours and costs under $50 — one of the best investments a homeowner can make before temperatures drop.
This is the single most important step and the one most homeowners skip. Disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor faucets before the first freeze. A connected hose traps water in the faucet and pipe — causing it to freeze and burst even if you have a frost-free faucet. Drain the hose completely and store it in a garage or shed.
Locate the shut-off valve for each outdoor faucet — usually inside your home near where the pipe exits the wall. Turn it clockwise to close. Then go outside and open the outdoor faucet to drain any remaining water from the pipe. Leave the outdoor faucet open slightly all winter so any residual water can escape. Install insulated faucet covers for extra protection.
Any pipes in unheated spaces — garage, crawl space, basement, attic, or along exterior walls — are at risk. Wrap them with foam pipe insulation sleeves available at any hardware store for about $1 per foot. Slit the sleeve lengthwise, snap it around the pipe, and secure with tape. Pay special attention to pipes near exterior walls and in corners.
Cold air drafts accelerate pipe freezing dramatically. Inspect where pipes enter your home through walls, floors, and foundation and seal any gaps with caulk or spray foam insulation. Check around dryer vents, electrical outlets on exterior walls, and cable or pipe penetrations. This also reduces your heating bill significantly.
Every homeowner should know exactly where their main water shut-off valve is before a pipe freezes. It is usually near your water meter — in the basement, crawl space, or utility room. Make sure it turns freely. In an emergency you need to be able to shut off your entire water supply in seconds. Label it clearly.
If you are leaving your home for more than a few days during winter never set your thermostat below 55 degrees. Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to let warm air circulate around the pipes. These two habits prevent the majority of freeze-related burst pipes in vacant homes.
Never use an open flame to thaw frozen pipes — this causes house fires. Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels. Start thawing nearest the faucet and work toward the frozen section. If you cannot locate the frozen section or the pipe has already burst shut off your main water supply immediately and call a licensed plumber.
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