As winter creeps in and temperatures start to drop, many homeowners in Georgia breathe a sigh of relief from the sweltering summer heat. But winter comes with its own set of concerns, especially for your home’s plumbing system. Cold weather can wreak havoc on pipes and fixtures if you’re not prepared, leading to costly repairs and avoidable stress.
At Upshaw Plumbing, we believe that a little winter preparation can go a long way in protecting your home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to winterize your plumbing, avoid frozen pipes, and keep your home safe and comfortable when cold weather hits.
Why Winter Plumbing Protection Matters
Even in a southern state like Georgia, we’re not immune to freezing temperatures, especially during sudden cold snaps. When water freezes, it expands. That means any water left sitting in pipes or outdoor fixtures is at risk of turning into solid ice, creating enormous pressure from the inside out. The result? Burst pipes, flooding, and expensive emergency repairs.
In fact, burst pipes are one of the most common causes of property damage during winter, often leading to thousands of dollars in restoration costs. The good news? Most of this is preventable with a little know-how and a proactive approach.
The Danger of Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes aren’t just an inconvenience. They’re a serious threat. When water freezes inside a pipe, it creates blockages and pressure that can cause the pipe to crack or burst. This is especially true for:
- Uninsulated pipes in unheated areas (garages, basements, attics)
- Outdoor spigots and hose bibs
- Pipes located along exterior walls with poor insulation
When these pipes burst, they can leak hundreds of gallons of water into your home. The damage may not be immediately visible, which can lead to mold growth, rotted drywall, and ruined flooring if left unchecked.
Step 1: Turn Off and Drain Outdoor Spigots
One of the most overlooked winter plumbing tips is managing your outdoor hose bibs and spigots. Many homeowners simply forget about them, but they’re one of the first areas to freeze.
Here’s what you should do:
- Disconnect all garden hoses from the spigots.
- Turn off the water supply to any outdoor faucets if a dedicated shut-off valve is available.
- Open the spigots fully to drain any remaining water inside.
- Add an insulated faucet cover for extra protection.
If your home doesn’t have separate shut-off valves for exterior faucets, it’s worth installing them now. This simple upgrade could prevent major headaches come winter.
Step 2: Know Where Your Main Shut-Off Valve Is
This might be the most critical tip of all. If a pipe bursts, the first thing you need to do is quickly shut off the water. But many homeowners don’t know where their main shut-off valve is located.
Here’s how to find it:
- Most main shut-off valves are located inside your home, where the main water line enters. This is often in a basement, utility room, or garage.
- Some homes may have it located outside, near the foundation or in a meter box close to the street.
- The valve is typically a gate valve (with a round handle) or ball valve (lever-style).
If you’re unsure where yours is or how to operate it, call Upshaw Plumbing. We’ll show you exactly where it is, label it for easy reference, and make sure it’s functioning properly. This knowledge alone can prevent thousands of dollars in water damage.
Step 3: Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
If you have pipes in unheated or poorly insulated spaces, that is another vulnerability in your plumbing system. Luckily, that can be corrected. For your pipes, consider adding insulation:
- Foam pipe sleeves are an affordable and effective option.
- Use heat tape or heat cables for extreme cases. This is especially helpful in crawlspaces or garages.
- Make sure cabinet doors under sinks stay open during cold nights to let warm air circulate around indoor pipes.
Insulating your pipes is a small investment that can pay off big time by keeping your water flowing, even during a freeze.
Step 4: Keep Your Heat On (Even When You’re Away)
If you’re heading out of town during the winter months, don’t turn your thermostat off completely. Keep it set to at least 55°F, even if you won’t be home. This helps prevent freezing in your absence and ensures pipes stay above the danger zone.
Also consider:
- Opening interior doors to maintain even heat distribution throughout the home.
- Installing a smart thermostat so you can monitor your home’s temperature remotely.
Step 5: Drain and Disconnect Unused Fixtures
If you have seasonal features like outdoor kitchens, irrigation lines, or pool plumbing, now’s the time to winterize them. Fully drain and disconnect water lines to these fixtures and consider professional blow-outs to remove any residual water before temperatures drop below freezing.
Step 6: Get a Winter Plumbing Inspection
The best way to ensure your home is fully protected is to schedule a professional winter plumbing inspection. At Upshaw Plumbing, we’ll inspect your system from top to bottom, including:
- Locating and labeling shut-off valves
- Inspecting outdoor and interior pipes for vulnerabilities
- Checking for leaks and signs of wear
- Testing water heater performance
- Evaluating the need for insulation or heat tape
Our expert team will provide personalized recommendations tailored to your home and catch small issues before they become major problems. Not sure where to start? Contact our team and ask about how to schedule a home inspection.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Ignore Your Water Heater
Your water heater works overtime in the winter. If it’s already on its last legs, cold weather could push it over the edge. There are a few signs that’ll let you know beforehand that your water heater needs assistance. If you’re experiencing any of the following, give us a call:
- Inconsistent hot water
- Rusty or discolored water
- Odd noises (rumbling or popping)
- Leaking at the base
We’re certified installers for Rheem, Navien, and Rinnai systems and offer expert repair and replacement services for both standard and tankless models. If you’re not sure what system your home has, no worries! Call Upshaw Plumbing and we’ll send a team over to evaulate the health of your home’s water heater.
Secure Your Home with Confidence
Winter plumbing issues are often sudden, severe, and expensive. They’re the type of damage that any homeowner will want to avoid. With all this said, however, the good news is that they’re almost always preventable.
At Upshaw Plumbing, we’re here to help homeowners in Buford, Flowery Branch, and surrounding areas take the worry out of winter. From identifying your shut-off valves to protecting your outdoor fixtures and insulating vulnerable pipes, we’ll ensure your plumbing system is ready for whatever the season throws your way.
Call Upshaw Plumbing Today!
Don’t wait for the first freeze to take action. Our expert team is standing by to help you winterize your plumbing, perform a full inspection, or answer any questions you have. We’re local, licensed, and ready to protect your home with the kind of care and honesty you won’t find with just any plumber.
Let Upshaw Plumbing help you stay warm, dry, and worry-free this winter. Call (770) 298-7811 or contact us online today. We hope to hear from you soon!
