In Wisconsin, the winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, and it is not uncommon to see temperatures in the teens, single digits, or even below zero. Because of this, Steve's Plumbing & Heating, the premier plumbers in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, explain the basics of plumbing winterization, or how to keep your pipes from freezing when it's bitter cold outside. They offer 24-hour service for plumbing and HVAC emergencies and provide high-quality workmanship and customer service at an affordable rate.

A Plumber’s 4 Key Tips For Winterizing Your Plumbing

1. Insulate Your Pipes

The best way to avoid the need for an emergency plumber is to insulate your pipes thoroughly. Wrap them in polyethylene or fiberglass tubes (available at any home supply store), especially pipes that have frozen before. Additionally, focus on pipes in unheated areas, such as in the garage or rooms without a heat vent.

2. Open Cabinet Doors

Pipes in a cabinet under a kitchen or bathroom sink—especially sinks that face an exterior wall—may be in danger of freezing when the cabinet doors are closed. Open the cabinets at night before the temperatures drop to let warm air from the house reach the pipes.

3. Leave Faucets Dripping

When you will be away for several days or more, or on especially cold nights, leave the faucet running at a steady drip. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and even if ice does form, the dripping relieves pressure that could cause the pipes to burst.  

4. Seal Outside Cracks

Fix any cracks or holes in the outside walls or foundation of your home to prevent cold air from entering and reaching your water pipes. Fill gaps with spray foam insulation and seal with caulk. This can help you avoid the need to call an emergency plumber for repairs.

Steve's Plumbing & Heating, the most respected plumber and furnace repair service in Wood County, offers service in a 50-mile radius from their Wisconsin Rapids facility. Visit their website for contact and location details, or call (715) 421-1800 to speak to a knowledgeable professional about your plumbing and HVAC needs.