Winter in Maryland can be unpredictable—from freezing temperatures to sudden thaws and everything in between. While you’re busy preparing your home for the holidays, one thing you shouldn’t overlook is your plumbing system.
Cold weather can take a serious toll on your pipes, water heater, and drains if they aren’t properly maintained. The good news? With a little preparation, you can protect your plumbing and avoid the stress (and expense) of mid-winter emergencies.
At Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating, we’ve helped countless homeowners safeguard their plumbing systems for the cold months ahead. Here’s your ultimate checklist for winter plumbing prep.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
When temperatures drop below freezing, uninsulated pipes are at risk of bursting. Even a small crack can leak hundreds of gallons of water per day, causing major damage.
Focus on insulating pipes in:
- Basements and crawl spaces
- Garages and utility rooms
- Attics or exterior walls
Use foam pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape to keep water flowing freely. If you’re unsure where your vulnerable pipes are, our team can inspect your system and insulate problem areas before the first hard freeze.
Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Faucets
Your outdoor spigots and garden hoses are some of the most common sources of winter plumbing issues. When water is left inside, it can freeze, expand, and rupture the connected interior pipe.
Here’s what to do:
- Disconnect all hoses and store them indoors.
- Drain any remaining water from the spigot.
- Shut off the outdoor water valve (if your home has one).
- Install a frost-free faucet cover for added protection.
For long-term peace of mind, consider upgrading to frost-proof hose bibs—they’re designed to prevent freezing even in subzero temperatures.
Service Your Water Heater
Your water heater works hardest during winter, and if it’s not properly maintained, it could fail when you need it most.
Schedule a professional inspection before the coldest months arrive to check for sediment buildup, corrosion, or signs of wear. Our technicians will:
- Flush the tank to remove mineral deposits.
- Test the pressure relief valve.
- Check for leaks and efficiency issues.
- Adjust the thermostat to the ideal temperature (120°F).
If your water heater is over 10 years old, fall or early winter is a great time to consider an energy-efficient replacement before it breaks unexpectedly.
Check for Leaks Early
Small leaks can worsen in freezing weather, leading to costly repairs. Inspect under sinks, around toilets, and behind appliances for any dripping or dampness.
If you spot moisture or hear dripping, don’t ignore it—even minor leaks can indicate larger issues like worn seals or corroded fittings. Fixing them now can save you from burst pipes or water damage later in the season.
Protect Your Sump Pump
If your home has a sump pump, it’s your best defense against basement flooding from melting snow or heavy rain. However, cold weather can cause discharge lines to freeze, rendering the system useless when you need it most.
To prepare:
- Inspect and clean the sump pit.
- Test the pump by pouring water into the basin—it should activate immediately.
- Ensure the discharge line is clear and positioned to drain away from the foundation.
- Add a sump pump cover to help insulate against freezing temperatures.
Schedule a Professional Winterization Service
Not sure where to start? A professional plumbing winterization service is the best way to protect your home before temperatures drop. We’ll inspect every component of your system, identify potential problem areas, and apply the necessary fixes to keep everything working properly through winter.
From sump pumps to water heaters, we’ll make sure you’re fully prepared, so you can focus on staying warm and worry-free.
Stay Winter-Ready with Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating
A little preparation goes a long way toward preventing plumbing emergencies this winter. By following this checklist—or letting our experts handle it for you—you can save money, energy, and frustration when the cold sets in.
At Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating, we provide comprehensive winter plumbing inspections, repairs, and installations throughout Maryland. Our licensed professionals are here to help you safeguard your home before the first freeze. Contact us today to schedule your winter plumbing service.