- Insulate Exposed Pipes
Start by identifying pipes in cold or unheated spaces, like basements, garages, crawl spaces, or exterior walls. These are the first to freeze when temperatures drop. Adding insulation helps maintain water temperature and keeps lines from icing over.
- Cover Outdoor Fixtures and Drain Seasonal Lines
Outdoor faucets, spigots, and water lines are especially vulnerable. Disconnect and drain garden hoses, shut off outdoor water valves, and install foam faucet covers for extra protection. If you have seasonal plumbing, like irrigation systems or exterior hose bibs, drain them completely before winter. Empty pipes can’t freeze, so a little prep now can save a lot of repair later.
- Maintain Consistent Indoor Heat
Even when your building isn’t occupied, keep indoor temperatures above 55°F. Consistent heat keeps water flowing and helps prevent pipes from freezing in hidden or unheated spaces. If you close your business for the holidays or weekends, resist turning the thermostat too low. It’s better to pay a little more for heat than to pay a lot more for repairs.
- Let Faucets Drip and Open Cabinet Doors
Letting faucets drip during extreme cold keeps water moving, making it less likely to freeze. Opening cabinet doors under sinks allows warm air to circulate around pipes, especially in kitchens or bathrooms that sit along exterior walls.
- Protect Above-Ground Backflows
Be sure to provide adequate insulation to prevent backflows from freezing.
- Have a Plan for Emergencies
If a pipe freezes, keep the faucet open to relieve pressure and use a hair dryer or heating pad to thaw it slowly. Never use an open flame. If a pipe bursts, shut off the main water supply immediately and call a licensed plumber. Acting quickly can minimize water damage.