The holidays are supposed to be filled with warmth—twinkling lights, hot cocoa, cozy nights by the fire. But you know what isn’t warm? A frozen pipe that bursts the day before your in-laws show up.
It happens more than you’d think—and always at the worst possible time. So, before Jack Frost starts nipping at your plumbing, here’s how to keep your pipes from turning into popsicles this holiday season.
1. Keep the Warmth Flowing – Literally
It might feel wasteful to heat an empty home while you’re off visiting family, but trust us: it’s way cheaper than a burst pipe. Even if you’re just heading out for a long weekend, don’t let your thermostat drop too low.
Set it and forget it: Keep your thermostat at no lower than 55°F, even when you’re away. Your pipes will thank you.
2. Let Your Faucets Drip (Just a Little)
We know – dripping faucets might seem like a plumbing no-no. But in freezing temps? That slow, steady drip keeps water moving and helps prevent freezing.
Just a trickle: Let cold water drip from the faucets farthest from your main water line (usually on exterior walls). Moving water = happy pipes.
3. Open Cabinet Doors – Yes, Really
It sounds silly, but this simple trick can make a big difference. Opening the doors under your sinks allows warm air to circulate around the pipes, especially in drafty spots like kitchens and bathrooms.
Pro tip: If you’ve got kiddos or curious pets, make sure any cleaning supplies are out of reach first!
4. Know Where Your Main Shut-Off Valve Is
If the worst does happen and a pipe bursts, knowing how to shut off your water fast can prevent major damage. (Like, thousands-of-dollars-in-repairs kind of major.)
Before disaster strikes: Find your main shut-off valve now, not while your ceiling’s leaking like Niagara Falls. If you’re not sure where it is, your local plumber can help you locate and label it.
5. Insulate Like You Mean It
Exposed pipes in attics, garages, and crawl spaces are basically begging to freeze. Give them some insulation—and not just the foam kind. Even wrapping them in towels or old blankets in a pinch can help.
Wrap it up: While you’re wrapping gifts this holiday season, don’t forget to also wrap something else: your pipes! Pipe sleeves, heat tape, or even newspaper can do the trick in a last-minute scramble. Bonus: this helps with energy efficiency, too.
Contact Hope Plumbing Today in Connecticut and New Haven County
Don’t let frozen pipes crash the holiday party. Frozen pipes don’t just ruin your plumbing—they ruin your peace of mind. A little prep now saves you from a big, wet headache later.
If you’re not sure your home’s protected, or you want a pro to give everything a once-over before the holiday madness sets in, give us a call. We’ll help keep your holidays merry, bright, and dry.
