by B. Leslie Baird

Created on: December 01, 2009   Last Updated: January 11, 2010

Winterizing home plumbing is a job that most homeowners can do themselves. Only basic skills are needed and most of the tasks should be fairly quick and easy to complete. The cost of materials is usually not too great either. Winterizing your plumbing can benefit you in two ways. You should be able to save on some of your water heating costs and also prevent your homes pipes from freezing and bursting.

Outside faucets:

You should always remove hoses that are attached to your outside faucets. Drain the hoses and store them for the winter. This will help your hoses last longer by preventing frozen water pockets from expanding the hose. If you have an inside water shut off to your faucet, turn it off. Turn the faucet on from the outside and allow any remaining water to drain. Leave the inside shut off until you need it again in spring. If you do not have an inside shut off there are insulation caps that can be purchased at most handyman stores at a low cost. Use these to cover the faucet to reduce freezing.

Pipes:

There are several types of pipe insulation available. They are usually sold in four to six foot lengths and made in various diameters and thicknesses. Thinner pieces are easier to bend but the thicker pieces will give you more insulation value. The pieces are split lengthwise so you only need to slip them over your pipes. They can easily be cut to needed lengths. Insulate all exposed piping in your home, including hot water pipes. Insulating the hot water pipes will save you a bit on the heat loss from them. Do not forget to insulate exposed pipes under kitchen or bathroom faucets.

Crawl spaces:

If your home is situated on a crawl space you should take extra care in insulating any exposed piping. You may wish to add some regular insulation blanket between floor joists if there is none already present.

Electric heating cables:

If you are in a particularly cold area, have exposed piping in a crawl space or unheated basement, you might consider getting an electric pipe heater. They are somewhat more expensive but are easy to install. The simple idea behind them is a cable or wire attached to your pipes that will heat and transfer the heat to the pipes to prevent freezing. Most are also safe for plastic piping but be sure to check the specifications before buying. Many electric pipe heaters will also come with a thermostat to prevent you from wasting energy when the pipes do not need to be warmed.

Water heater:

Insulating your water heater is also a good idea while you are on this project. While the water heater is not likely to be damaged by freezing the low cost of a heater blanket will help you conserve energy by eliminating some heat loss. Check your water heater's manual first. Many times it is not recommended to wrap a new water heater until it is over two years or so in age.

If your pipes do freeze there are many ways to thaw them but prevention is the best medicine in this situation.

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