❄️ Winter Vacation Prep: How to Protect Your Home from Frozen Pipes

Planning a winter getaway is exciting—but cold temperatures can put your home at risk while you’re away. One of the most common (and costly) winter issues homeowners face is frozen or burst pipes. With a little preparation, you can protect your home and enjoy your vacation worry-free.

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Big Deal

When water freezes, it expands. That pressure can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to flooding and extensive water damage once temperatures rise. Repairs can be expensive, disruptive, and stressful—especially if the damage goes unnoticed while you’re out of town.

Steps to Protect Your Home Before You Leave

1. Keep the heat on
Even if no one is home, your heating system should remain on. Set your thermostat to at least 55–60°F to keep pipes warm enough to prevent freezing.

2. Insulate exposed pipes
Pipes located in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls are especially vulnerable. Foam pipe insulation or heat tape is an inexpensive and effective solution.

3. Let faucets drip
A slow drip from faucets connected to exterior walls helps keep water moving, reducing the chance of freezing.

4. Open cabinet doors
Opening cabinets under sinks—especially those on exterior walls—allows warm air to circulate around plumbing.

5. Shut off outdoor water sources
Disconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior spigots. Drain any remaining water to prevent freezing and damage.

6. Consider turning off the main water supply
For longer trips, shutting off your home’s main water valve and draining the pipes can significantly reduce the risk of water damage if a pipe fails.

Extra Peace of Mind While You’re Away

• Install a smart thermostat or freeze alarm to monitor temperatures remotely

• Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to check in on your home

• Make sure someone knows where your main water shut-off valve is located

Enjoy Your Trip—Stress Free

Taking a few preventative steps before your winter vacation can save you from major headaches later. Protecting your pipes protects your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind.

If you have concerns about your plumbing, insulation, or winter preparedness, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional before the temperatures drop.