How Do You Winterize Pipes to Prevent Freezing?
Last updated October 26, 2026
The short answer
Start with Outdoor Faucets
Disconnect garden hoses and drain them completely. Shut off the outdoor water supply valve, usually located inside your home near the faucet. Open the outdoor spigot to let any remaining water drain out, then close it once empty.
For homes with frost-proof spigots, the shutoff is built into the faucet itself. Still disconnect hoses, because trapped water can freeze and crack the pipe behind the wall. If you live in Chapel Hill, keep the location of your shutoff valve written down for quick access.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Wrap pipes in unheated areas with foam pipe insulation or heat tape. Focus on attic spaces, crawl spaces, garages, and basements. Secure the insulation with tape or zip ties, and cover any gaps where cold air can reach the pipe.
Pay extra attention to pipes running along exterior walls. Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm room air circulate around the plumbing. This simple step helps keep the pipes above freezing during a cold night.
- Use foam insulation sleeves for straight runs
- Wrap elbows and joints with insulation tape
- Cover pipes near vents or drafty spots
- Check insulation for gaps or tears each fall
- Add insulation to hot water pipes too
Seal Drafts and Cracks
Cold air seeps through gaps around pipes where they enter your home. Use caulk or spray foam to seal openings around exterior walls, foundations, and crawl space vents. This keeps cold air out and warm air in.
Inspect the areas where utility lines, cables, and pipes pass through walls. Seal any visible gaps. A small crack can let in enough cold to freeze a nearby pipe, so thorough sealing matters.
Keep Water Moving During Cold Snaps
When temperatures drop below freezing, let a faucet drip slowly. Running water is less likely to freeze because movement raises the water temperature slightly. Choose the faucet farthest from your main water line to encourage flow through the whole system.
Keep the thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you are away. This maintains a baseline warmth that helps protect pipes in hidden areas. If you plan to be gone for days, consider draining the entire system.
Know What to Do If a Pipe Bursts
If a pipe freezes or bursts, act quickly. Shut off your main water valve immediately to stop flooding. Then open nearby faucets to relieve pressure and drain remaining water.
Call local water damage pros to handle the cleanup and drying. They can also inspect for hidden damage behind walls and under floors. If you notice a burst pipe, the related burst-pipe-cleanup service may be relevant.
- Locate your main shutoff valve before winter
- Turn it off if you see water or hear hissing
- Avoid using open flames to thaw pipes
- Use a hair dryer or space heater on low
- Take photos of any damage for your records
Talk to someone now
Phones are answered 24/7 for Chapel Hill and nearby communities.
Call Now (919) 525-3233Frequently asked questions
What temperature should I keep my house to prevent pipes from freezing?
Set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when away. This keeps the interior warm enough to protect pipes in most cases. During extreme cold, you may need to keep it higher.
Can I use antifreeze in my pipes?
No, never put automotive antifreeze in your plumbing. It is toxic and can contaminate drinking water. Instead, drain the system or use a plumber's non-toxic antifreeze for RV or seasonal homes, following label directions.
How long does it take for pipes to freeze?
It depends on the temperature, insulation, and pipe location. Uninsulated pipes in unheated areas can freeze within several hours of sustained below-freezing temperatures. Insulated pipes in heated spaces may never freeze. Act quickly when a cold snap hits.