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How To Winterize Your Pipes

Since our temperatures don’t often dip below freezing, Webster, TX, homeowners don’t think to prepare their plumbing systems for the cold. But when winter storms hit, many Texans are left with expensive plumbing catastrophes. 

Preparing a house for the holidays goes beyond decorating — there are steps you can take to ensure that your plumbing remains effective during the busiest time of the year. When your home’s plumbing is properly winterized, you’ll avoid disasters like frozen pipes, leaks, and the last effects of water damage.

Read on for our expert tips on how to winterize home plumbing and how to drain your pipes for winter.

Frozen gutter and downpipe outside house

Insulate Pipes

Insulation is the first step to winterizing your plumbing and protecting pipes from freezing.

Pipe insulation has several benefits, including greater energy efficiency, lower heating costs, and expedited hot water to taps and appliances. Both tank and tankless water heaters rely on pipework. When uninsulated pipes are exposed to cool air, they release more heat, and you could be left waiting for a comfortable morning shower. Exposed pipes in crawl spaces or attics are also at higher risk of freezing.

You can insulate pipes with quality thermal options like foam or reflective foil. After you’ve sized and measured sheets of insulation, apply them around exposed pipes. Although, when it comes to installing insulation in hard-to-reach areas, it’s best left to a plumbing pro.

Clean Your Gutters

Don’t overlook your gutters in the winter.

Clean, unobstructed gutters are crucial for avoiding water damage. If your gutters aren’t clear, built-up water or snow can freeze, damaging pipes or home siding. Cracked gutters can also lead to outside flooding or water infiltration inside the home.

To keep your gutters in top shape, we recommend cleaning them at least twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall. The best technique involves a sturdy ladder, gloves, and a gutter scoop to manually remove debris. Finish the job by rinsing your gutters clean with a hose.

Drain Excess Water from Appliances

If you don’t want your pipes to burst, consider letting your faucets and taps drip on particularly cold nights. Focus on faucets along exterior walls and allow them to trickle. This will relieve pressure on the pipes and reduce the risk of a catastrophic burst in the event of an ice blockage.

It’s best to drain appliances when temperatures drop significantly. Make sure to drain washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters too. It’s also a good idea to disconnect any outdoor hoses after draining them of remaining water.

Why Choose Alliance Plumbing?

Frozen pipes aren’t just a nuisance for homeowners — they can cause significant damage to your plumbing and appliances. If your pipes do freeze, or if you need help winterizing your plumbing, count on the dedicated professionals at Alliance Plumbing for repiping and repair.

Alliance Plumbing offers top-rated services throughout Webster and Harris County. As an award-winning plumbing provider, we specialize in whole-home solutions based on quality and expertise. Our trained and professional technicians deliver top-notch workmanship every time.

Speak to a team member today to learn more about how to winterize pipes and prepare your plumbing for the cold weather ahead.

Discover the Alliance Plumbing difference. For pipe repair, repiping, and pipe insulation services, schedule an appointment for your Webster, TX, home today.

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