Michigan winters are beautiful, but they can be brutal on a home’s plumbing system. Here in Livingston County, temperatures can drop quickly in the fall, and a single cold night is sometimes all it takes to freeze an exposed pipe. When water freezes, it expands, and that pressure can split copper, PEX, or PVC lines. The result is often a burst pipe, water damage, and an expensive repair right when you least want one.
After more than 25 years of providing residential plumbing in Howell and the surrounding communities, we have seen just about every type of winter plumbing emergency. The good news is that most of them can be prevented with a little preparation. Below, we share the steps we recommend every homeowner take before the first hard freeze arrives.
Why Winterizing Matters in Howell
Howell homes face a unique combination of challenges. Many properties in our area rely on private wells, have plumbing running through crawl spaces or unheated garages, and include older pipes that were never properly insulated. Add in long stretches of below-freezing weather, and the risk of frozen lines goes up considerably.
A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water in a short time, soaking drywall, flooring, insulation, and personal belongings. Even a small crack can lead to hidden leaks, mold growth, and structural damage. Taking a few hours to winterize now is far less costly and stressful than dealing with cleanup in January.
Step 1: Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses and Spigots
Outdoor faucets are usually the first part of a plumbing system to freeze. Start by disconnecting all garden hoses, draining them, and storing them in a garage or shed. A hose left attached can trap water inside the spigot and the pipe behind it, which can freeze and crack even if the faucet itself is rated as frost free.
If your home has an interior shutoff valve for the outdoor spigot, close it and then open the outside faucet to let any remaining water drain out. Leave the outdoor faucet open through the winter so that any trapped water has room to expand. If you are unsure whether your spigots are frost free, or if you notice drips or leaks, now is a great time to have them inspected or upgraded.
Step 2: Insulate Exposed Pipes
Any pipe located in an unheated or poorly heated area is vulnerable. Common trouble spots include:
- Crawl spaces and unfinished basements
- Garages, especially lines that feed laundry areas or utility sinks
- Exterior walls, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms
- Attics and areas near vents or rim joists
Foam pipe sleeves are inexpensive and easy to install on accessible lines. For pipes in especially cold areas, heat cable or heat tape can provide extra protection, as long as it is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. We also recommend sealing gaps and cracks near pipes where cold air can sneak in, such as around dryer vents, sill plates, and utility penetrations.
Step 3: Blow Out Your Irrigation System
If you have an underground sprinkler system, it needs to be fully drained before the ground freezes. Water left in irrigation lines, valves, and backflow devices can freeze and cause damage that will not show up until you turn the system back on in the spring. Most systems should be shut off at the main supply and cleared with compressed air.
Your backflow preventer deserves special attention. These devices sit above ground in many installations and can crack when exposed to freezing temperatures. Insulating or draining the assembly properly helps protect it and keeps your water supply safe from contamination.
Step 4: Check Your Sump Pump and Discharge Line
Sump pumps work hard during fall rains and spring thaws, but winter brings its own risks. If the discharge line freezes, water has nowhere to go, and the pump can burn out or your basement can flood. Make sure the discharge line slopes away from your home and is not sitting in a low spot where water can collect and freeze.
Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and confirming it turns on and drains properly. If your pump is getting older, or if you do not have a battery backup system, consider an upgrade before winter weather sets in.
Step 5: Protect Your Well System
Many homeowners in and around Howell rely on private wells. Well pumps, pressure tanks, and supply lines located in well pits, pump houses, or unheated spaces need protection from freezing. Insulate pressure tanks and exposed piping, make sure well pit covers fit securely, and consider a small, safe heat source for well houses that see extreme cold.
If you have noticed short cycling, fluctuating water pressure, or unusual noises from your well system, have it checked before winter. A failing pressure switch or tank is much easier to fix in October than during a cold snap.
Step 6: Service Your Water Heater and Boiler
Your water heater works harder in the winter because the incoming water is colder. Flushing the tank removes sediment buildup that reduces efficiency and causes popping or rumbling noises. This is especially important in our area, where well water and hard water can leave significant scale deposits.
If your home is heated by a boiler, schedule a seasonal inspection to confirm it is running safely and efficiently. A boiler failure during a deep freeze can leave your entire home, including your pipes, without heat.
Step 7: Know Where Your Main Shutoff Valve Is
Every member of your household should know where the main water shutoff valve is located and how to turn it off. If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water quickly can be the difference between a minor mess and major damage. Test the valve to make sure it turns easily. Older valves sometimes seize up and may need to be replaced.
Step 8: Keep Your Home Warm and Water Moving
During extreme cold, keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees, even at night or when you are away. Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to let warm air reach the pipes. On the coldest nights, allowing a faucet to drip slowly can relieve pressure in the line and reduce the chance of freezing.
If you plan to travel this winter, do not turn the heat off. For longer trips, consider shutting off the main water supply and draining the system, or ask a trusted neighbor to check on your home regularly.
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, a pipe may be frozen. Keep the faucet open and apply gentle heat to the affected section using a hair dryer, a heating pad, or warm towels. Never use an open flame, such as a torch, to thaw a pipe. If you cannot locate the frozen section, cannot reach it, or suspect the pipe has already cracked, shut off the main water supply and call a professional right away.
Get Ahead of Winter With Professional Help
Winterizing your plumbing is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home. While many of these steps are simple enough to handle on your own, a professional inspection can uncover hidden risks like poorly insulated lines, failing valves, worn sump pumps, or well system issues that are easy to miss. Our team believes in educating homeowners and offering honest, permanent solutions rather than quick fixes that will fail when the temperature drops. When you trust your home to experienced professionals for residential plumbing in Howell, you can face the coldest months with confidence and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winterizing Your Home Plumbing in Howell
When should I winterize my plumbing in Howell?
We recommend completing your winterizing tasks by mid to late October. Overnight freezes can arrive earlier than expected in Livingston County, so it is best to finish before the forecast consistently dips below freezing.
At what temperature do pipes freeze?
Water freezes at 32 degrees, but pipes in unheated or exposed areas are most at risk when outdoor temperatures fall into the low 20s or below for several hours. Wind and poor insulation can increase that risk.
Do frost-free outdoor faucets still need to be winterized?
Yes. Frost-free spigots are designed to drain, but they can still freeze and crack if a hose is left attached or if the faucet was installed without the proper slope. Always disconnect hoses before winter.
Should I drip my faucets every night in winter?
Dripping is usually only necessary during extreme cold snaps or for faucets connected to pipes along exterior walls. A slow drip keeps water moving and relieves pressure, which helps prevent bursting.
Can a plumber help winterize a vacation home or rental property?
Absolutely. Properties that sit empty for long periods are at higher risk for frozen and burst pipes. A plumber can drain the system, protect fixtures and appliances, and make sure everything is ready to restart safely in the spring.
Brock Mechanical is a trusted plumbing company in Howell, MI, with more than 25 years of experience serving homeowners and businesses throughout Livingston and the surrounding counties with honest pricing and guaranteed workmanship. If water goes through it, we do it, so contact us today to schedule your winter plumbing inspection and protect your home before the first freeze.
