Winter Plumbing Checklist for Your Outdoors: How to Protect Your Pipes from Freezing and Damage 

As winter approaches, it’s essential to take the necessary steps to protect your outdoor plumbing from the harsh cold. Freezing temperatures can cause serious damage to your pipes and outdoor fixtures, leading to costly repairs. By preparing your outdoor plumbing now, you can avoid a lot of headaches later. Here’s your ultimate winter plumbing checklist for the outdoors: 

1. Disconnect and Drain Garden Hoses 

One of the most common causes of outdoor plumbing issues in winter is water left in garden hoses. When temperatures drop, the water inside the hose can freeze, causing it to burst. 

Action: 

Disconnect all hoses from outdoor faucets. 

Drain the hoses by draining out any water that may be left inside. 

Store hoses indoors in a garage, shed, or basement to prevent them from freezing. 

2. Shut Off the Water Supply to Outdoor Faucets 

Outdoor faucets (often called hose bibs) are particularly vulnerable during winter. The water inside the faucet can freeze, expanding and causing cracks or ruptures in the pipes. 

Action: 

Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets at the shut-off valve inside your home, usually located in the basement or crawl space. 

Open the outdoor faucet to allow any remaining water to drain out. 

Install an insulated faucet cover to keep cold air out. 

3. Install Frost-Proof Outdoor Faucets 

If your outdoor faucets are old or prone to freezing, consider replacing them with frost-proof models. These faucets are designed to prevent water from freezing by keeping the water supply line inside the home, where it’s warmer. 

Action: 

Upgrade to frost-proof outdoor faucets if your current ones are outdated or prone to freezing. 

4. Insulate Outdoor Pipes and Faucets 

Outdoor pipes are especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Without proper insulation, these pipes can freeze, burst, and cause significant water damage. 

Action: 

Wrap outdoor pipes with foam pipe insulation to protect them from freezing temperatures. 

Use insulation sleeves or heated cables to safeguard exposed plumbing, especially along exterior walls. 

Insulate any crawl spaces or unheated areas where outdoor pipes are located. 

5. Seal Gaps and Cracks in Walls and Foundations 

Cold air can seep into your home through gaps or cracks in walls, windows, or foundations, cooling down pipes and increasing the risk of freezing. 

Action: 

Inspect the exterior of your home for any gaps, cracks, or holes, particularly near water supply lines. 

Seal up any openings with caulk, spray foam, or weatherstripping to prevent drafts from affecting your plumbing. 

6. Check the Sprinkler System 

Sprinkler systems can be especially vulnerable during winter. If water is left in the pipes, it can freeze and cause the system to break. It’s important to properly winterize your irrigation system before the first frost. 

Action: 

Shut off the water supply to your sprinkler system. 

Drain the system by using a manual or automatic blow-out method to clear any remaining water. 

Insulate any exposed pipes in the sprinkler system with foam or pipe insulation. 

7. Cover Your Backflow Preventer 

Your backflow preventer is an essential component that keeps contaminated water from flowing back into your home’s plumbing. It is typically located outside and needs to be protected during cold weather. 

Action: 

Install a backflow preventer cover designed to insulate the valve and keep it from freezing. 

Use foam insulation or blankets to wrap the preventer if a cover is not available. 

8. Inspect Your Septic System 

If you rely on a septic system, winter can cause problems if not properly maintained. Frozen septic lines can lead to sewage backups and extensive damage. 

Action: 

Ensure your septic system is in good condition before winter. If you’ve had issues with freezing in the past, consider adding extra insulation to your septic lines. 

Inspect the tank for any potential issues, and ensure it’s not too full before the first frost. 

Have your septic system pumped if needed to avoid blockages. 

9. Keep the Garage or Shed Warm 

If you have outdoor plumbing located in a garage or shed, the cold air in these spaces can increase the chances of your pipes freezing. 

Action: 

Keep the space heated to at least 40°F if possible, especially if there are exposed pipes. 

Install space heaters in unheated areas like a garage to maintain an appropriate temperature. 

10. Inspect Your Drainage System 

Your outdoor drainage system is crucial in preventing flooding and water damage. During winter, snow and ice can build up, blocking the flow of water. 

Action: 

Check your gutters and downspouts for debris that could block water flow. 

Clear any leaves or twigs from the gutters to ensure melting snow can drain away from your home. 

Install gutter guards to keep debris out. 

11. Know How to Thaw Frozen Pipes 

Despite your best efforts, there’s always a chance that some outdoor pipes may freeze. It’s important to know how to safely thaw them out to prevent damage. 

Action: 

Use a hairdryer to warm frozen pipes gradually. Never use open flames or a torch, as these can damage the pipes and cause a fire. 

Start from the faucet and work your way back toward the source of the pipe. 

Call a plumber if you’re unable to thaw the pipes yourself or if you notice signs of a burst pipe. 

12. Prepare for Emergencies 

In the event that your pipes do freeze or burst, it’s essential to be prepared to act quickly. 

Action: 

Know the location of your main water shut-off valve and be prepared to turn off the water immediately if a pipe bursts. 

Have emergency contact information for a plumber readily available, in case you need professional assistance.