As temperatures drop along the Gulf Coast, many homeowners overlook an important part of winter prep: their plumbing system. While snow and deep freezes may be rare in Daphne and surrounding areas, cold snaps still happen, and when they do, frozen pipes and other cold-weather plumbing issues can catch you off guard.
At Bayside Plumbing, we help homeowners stay ahead of seasonal plumbing problems with expert guidance, proactive maintenance and responsive service when it matters most. Here’s how to protect your pipes and prevent plumbing disasters this winter.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
One of the most effective winter plumbing tips is to insulate any exposed pipes, especially those in crawl spaces, attics and garages. Unprotected pipes in these areas are the most vulnerable to freezing temperatures.
Tip:
Use foam pipe insulation sleeves or wrap pipes with heat tape to reduce the risk of freezing and bursting.
2. Let Faucets Drip During Cold Nights
A small drip from your faucets during extreme cold can help relieve pressure in the pipes and prevent them from freezing. Focus on faucets along exterior walls or in poorly insulated areas.
Important:
A dripping faucet may seem like a waste of water, but it’s far cheaper than repairing a burst pipe and cleaning up water damage.
3. Seal Drafts and Keep the Heat On
Cold air from outside can sneak into unheated parts of your home. Make sure to seal any gaps near windows, doors and foundations, especially near plumbing lines. When leaving town, never turn your heat off completely. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F to protect your pipes.
4. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is
In the event of a frozen or burst pipe, time is of the essence. Shutting off your home’s main water supply can prevent further flooding or damage. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the shut-off valve is located and how to use it.
Not sure where to find it? Our team at Bayside Plumbing can help during your next service call.
5. Maintain Your Water Heater
Water heaters work overtime in colder months. If yours is nearing the end of its life or showing signs of strain, like odd noises or inconsistent temperature, schedule a checkup now. Preventative maintenance will ensure you have hot water all winter long and avoid mid-season breakdowns.
Learn more about water heater repair and replacement from Bayside Plumbing.
6. Watch for Leaks After a Freeze
If temperatures dip and you suspect a pipe has frozen, look for signs of damage once it thaws. Leaks behind walls or under sinks are common after a freeze, and even a small crack can waste gallons of water.
Our team offers expert leak detection and repiping to help you catch and fix problems before they become expensive repairs.
7. Call for Emergency Plumbing Service
Despite your best efforts, emergencies can still happen. That’s why Bayside Plumbing offers fast, reliable emergency plumbing service throughout Daphne and Baldwin County. If your pipes freeze, burst or back up, we’ll be there when you need us most.
Reach out by visiting our Contact Us page or call (251) 451-7089 to get help right away.
Trust Bayside Plumbing for Cold Weather Plumbing Maintenance
Whether you need help winterizing your home, repairing a broken line or upgrading old fixtures, our licensed and insured team is ready to serve you. With decades of experience and a full range of plumbing services, Bayside Plumbing is your go-to partner for cold weather plumbing maintenance in South Alabama.
Protect your home this winter by scheduling your seasonal plumbing inspection today.
Call (251) 451-7089 or contact us online to get started.