Did you know that frozen pipes cause approximately 250,000 household damages in the U.S. every winter, often costing thousands of dollars in repairs? In Green Bay, where winter temperatures regularly drop well below freezing, protecting your plumbing system is not just a good idea—it’s essential.
Are your pipes ready for Winter Plumbing? Taking the time to perform six essential plumbing checks before the first snowstorm can save you from costly repairs and headaches. From insulating pipes to prepping your sump pump, we’ve got you covered.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Exposed pipes are the most vulnerable to freezing temperatures, especially those in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, or garages.
Why it matters: When water freezes, it expands, increasing the risk of pipe bursts. Insulating your pipes ensures they retain heat and prevents freezing.
How to insulate:
Use foam pipe insulation sleeves, available at local hardware stores in Green Bay.
For added protection, wrap pipes with heat tape designed for plumbing applications.
Don’t forget outdoor pipes—insulated covers are affordable and effective.
Advanced Tip: Look for pipe insulation labeled with an R-value for optimal heat retention. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation.
2. Check Your Water Heater
Your water heater becomes one of the most heavily used appliances during winter. A failing water heater in sub-zero weather is not only inconvenient but also dangerous.
Signs of trouble:
Rust-colored or murky water could indicate sediment buildup in the tank.
Loud popping noises may suggest hard water deposits.
Inconsistent water temperatures are another red flag.
Action steps:
Flush your water heater to remove sediment and maintain efficiency.
Test the pressure relief valve to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
If your water heater is over 10 years old, consider upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient model.
Pro Tip: Consider installing a tankless water heater for continuous hot water and energy savings, especially if your household demand spikes in winter.
3. Inspect and Test Your Sump Pump
Sump pumps protect your home from water damage, especially during sudden winter thaws when melting snow can overwhelm drainage systems.
What to check:
Inspect the sump pump for debris or clogs that could hinder performance.
Check the float switch to ensure it activates the pump properly.
Confirm that the discharge line is free of ice and slopes away from your home.
Testing your sump pump: Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to see if the pump activates and drains effectively.
Advanced Tip: Invest in a battery backup system for your sump pump. Winter storms often cause power outages, leaving your home vulnerable to flooding.
4. Seal Leaks and Drafts Around Plumbing
Even small drafts near plumbing can expose pipes to freezing air, significantly increasing the risk of a burst.
Where to inspect:
Check areas around windows, doors, and exterior walls for drafts.
Inspect pipe penetrations where plumbing enters your home—these are common culprits for cold air infiltration.
How to seal:
Use weather-stripping or caulk to close gaps.
Apply spray foam insulation around pipe entry points for a secure seal.
Add pipe insulation to vulnerable areas for extra protection.
Pro Tip: Use a thermal camera (available for rent at some Green Bay hardware stores) to identify hidden drafts around your plumbing.
5. Winterize Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
Outdoor plumbing is often overlooked but highly susceptible to freezing temperatures. Taking a few simple steps can prevent significant damage.
Steps to winterize:
Disconnect and drain all garden hoses to avoid trapped water that could freeze.
Shut off the water supply to exterior faucets using the interior shut-off valve.
Turn on outdoor faucets to drain any remaining water.
Install insulated faucet covers for added protection.
Pro Tip: If your home has an irrigation system, schedule a professional blowout service to ensure all water is removed before winter.
6. Locate and Test Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
In a plumbing emergency, time is of the essence. Knowing where your main water shut-off valve is located—and ensuring it works—is critical.
How to find it: Most homes in Green Bay have the main shut-off valve in the basement or near the water meter.
Testing the valve:
Turn the valve off and on to ensure it moves freely.
If it’s stuck or hard to turn, consider having a plumber replace it before an emergency occurs.
Advanced Tip: Mark the shut-off valve with a bright tag or label so it’s easy to locate in an emergency. Share this information with everyone in your household.
Practical Tips: 6 Actions You Can Take Right Now
Here are quick, actionable steps to prepare your plumbing for the cold season:
Drip faucets during freezing temperatures: Moving water is less likely to freeze.
Open cabinets under sinks: This allows warm air to circulate around pipes, especially those on exterior walls.
Invest in pipe heating cables: These are great for areas prone to freezing.
Set your thermostat consistently: Avoid letting temperatures drop below 55°F, even if you’re away.
Inspect basement and crawl space vents: Ensure they’re securely closed to keep cold air out.
Keep gutters clean: Clogged gutters can cause water backups and increase the risk of ice dams, which can affect plumbing systems.
Read more about How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Your Green Bay Home
Winter in Green Bay is no joke, but with the right preparation, your plumbing system can handle the cold. From insulating exposed pipes to testing your sump pump, these six essential checks will help you avoid costly repairs and ensure your home stays warm and functional all season long.
Don’t leave your plumbing to chance—schedule today. Our expert team is here to protect your home from the freeze.
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