Introduction
Winter in Northwest Arkansas can bring sudden temperature drops that put your home’s plumbing system at risk. Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of winter water damage, and when they burst, the repairs can be costly and disruptive. Fortunately, with a few preventive steps, you can keep your pipes safe all winter long.
At Trade Pro Plumbing, we help homeowners prepare their plumbing systems for freezing weather through thorough inspections, insulation, and maintenance. In this guide, we’ll explain why pipes freeze, what you can do to prevent it, and when to call a plumber for help.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Big Problem
When water inside your pipes freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the pipe walls. Even strong materials like copper or PVC can crack under this stress. Once the ice thaws, the pressure releases and causes leaks or full bursts that can flood your home.
Some of the most vulnerable areas include:
- Attics, basements, and crawl spaces
- Pipes running along exterior walls
- Outdoor hose bibs and sprinkler systems
- Garages and unheated utility areas
Even a small crack can release hundreds of gallons of water per day, so preventing freezing is always easier and cheaper than dealing with a burst pipe.
Step 1: Insulate Exposed Pipes
One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your plumbing is to insulate pipes in unheated areas. Use foam pipe sleeves, fiberglass wrap, or heating tape to keep the water temperature inside your pipes above freezing.
Focus on:
- Pipes in basements, attics, crawl spaces, and garages
- Water lines under sinks near exterior walls
- Outdoor spigots and supply lines
For pipes that are difficult to access, a plumber can install heat cables or additional insulation to ensure full protection.
Step 2: Disconnect Hoses and Drain Outdoor Lines
Leaving hoses connected during freezing weather traps water inside and increases the risk of damage to both the hose and the faucet. Disconnect all outdoor hoses, drain any remaining water, and store them indoors.
If your home has a shut-off valve for outdoor faucets, close it and drain the line completely. For sprinkler systems, it’s best to blow out the water with compressed air or call a professional plumber to handle the winterization safely.
Step 3: Keep Indoor Temperatures Steady
Never let your home temperature drop below 55°F during cold weather, even if you’re away. Keep cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes, especially in bathrooms and kitchens that share exterior walls.
For multi-level homes, make sure all levels are heated evenly. Closed vents or uneven heating can cause cold spots that lead to frozen pipes in upstairs bathrooms or basements.
Step 4: Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold
When temperatures drop below freezing, letting a small stream of water run through your faucets can prevent freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and the steady flow relieves pressure inside the pipes.
Choose one faucet per line—typically a sink farthest from the water source—and let it drip slowly overnight during severe cold snaps.
Step 5: Seal Cracks and Drafts
Cold air can enter through small gaps around windows, doors, and foundation walls, cooling nearby pipes. Use caulk or insulation foam to seal these gaps, especially in areas where pipes pass through walls or floors.
Weatherstripping doors and insulating crawl space vents can also help maintain indoor warmth and protect your plumbing.
Step 6: Know How to Shut Off Your Water
If a pipe bursts, every second counts. Knowing where your main shut-off valve is—and how to use it—can prevent catastrophic flooding. Most valves are located near the water meter or where the main line enters your home.
Turn the valve clockwise to stop the water flow, then call Trade Pro Plumbing immediately for professional repair.
Step 7: Schedule a Plumbing Inspection Before Winter
A professional inspection is the best way to make sure your plumbing is winter-ready. Trade Pro Plumbing offers pre-winter inspections that include:
- Checking for leaks or weak spots
- Testing pressure levels
- Inspecting insulation and exposed pipes
- Ensuring water heaters and main lines are in good shape
This proactive step gives you peace of mind knowing your system is protected before temperatures drop.
What to Do if Your Pipes Freeze
Even with preparation, sudden cold snaps can still cause pipes to freeze. If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle of water comes out, the line may be frozen.
Here’s what to do:
- Leave the faucet open to relieve pressure.
- Gently warm the frozen section with a hair dryer or space heater (never an open flame).
- If you can’t locate the frozen area or it’s inaccessible, call Trade Pro Plumbing for help.
Do not ignore a frozen pipe—it can burst at any time as it begins to thaw.
Why Professional Help Matters
While many winterization steps are simple DIY projects, professional plumbers can identify vulnerabilities you may miss. At Trade Pro Plumbing, we use thermal imaging, pressure testing, and years of local experience to find and protect problem areas before they fail.
If your pipes are older, made of galvanized steel, or have shown signs of corrosion, our experts can recommend insulation upgrades or replacement options to ensure your plumbing survives even the coldest Northwest Arkansas nights.
Conclusion
Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on unprotected plumbing, but a few simple steps can prevent disaster. By insulating pipes, draining outdoor lines, maintaining indoor heat, and scheduling a professional inspection, you can protect your home and avoid costly water damage.
At Trade Pro Plumbing, we help homeowners across Northwest Arkansas stay prepared and confident through the winter months. Our licensed plumbers offer expert winterization, pipe repair, and emergency services when freezing weather strikes.
If you want to make sure your plumbing is ready for cold weather, contact Trade Pro Plumbing today for an inspection and professional protection you can trust.
