Plumbing Tips | Plumbing Services | Water Heater Repair

The Winter Plumbing Checklist Every Homeowner Should Follow

When the temperature drops, your plumbing system feels it too. Cold weather can put extra strain on your pipes, water heater, and drains — leading to costly problems if you’re not prepared. But with a few quick checks and a little prevention, you can keep your home warm, dry, and running smoothly all winter long.

Here’s our Winter Plumbing Checklist every homeowner should follow to avoid surprises this season.

1. Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

When water freezes, it expands — and that pressure can burst even sturdy pipes. Avoid the mess (and expense) of a major leak with these quick steps:

Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages.
Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor water valves.
Let faucets drip slightly on extremely cold nights to keep water moving.
Keep cabinet doors open under sinks on exterior walls so warm air can circulate.

Jake’s Tip: If you’ve had frozen pipes before, call us before the next freeze. We’ll inspect insulation and heat tape to keep your system safe all winter.

2. Give Your Water Heater Some Love

Your water heater works harder in winter, and extra use during the holidays can push it to its limit.

Set your thermostat to 120°F for efficiency and safety.
Flush sediment from the tank if it hasn’t been done recently.
Check for signs of rust or leaks around the base.

Jake’s Tip: A quick water heater tune-up now can extend its life — and make sure your hot water is working when you need it most.

3. Test Your Sump Pump Before the Snow Melts

Heavy snow followed by a quick thaw can overwhelm your sump pump fast.

Pour a bucket of water into the pit to make sure it kicks on properly.
Clean debris from the pit and discharge line.
Consider a backup battery system in case of power outages.

Jake’s Tip: We can run a quick test and cleaning to make sure your sump pump is ready for winter storms.

4. Clear Slow Drains Now — Before They Become Clogs

Holiday cooking, extra showers, and more laundry mean more water going through your drains.

Avoid grease down the drain — it solidifies in cold pipes.
Watch for gurgling sounds or slow flow as early warning signs.

Jake’s Tip: A quick drain cleaning can prevent a holiday backup — and it’s faster (and cheaper) than an emergency call later.

5. Keep the Heat On When You’re Away

Even if you’re traveling for the holidays, don’t turn your heat off completely.

Set your thermostat no lower than 55°F.
Ask a neighbor to check in if temps drop below freezing.
Shut off the main water valve if you’ll be gone for several days.

Jake’s Tip: We offer quick home shut-off and restart services to help you travel worry-free.

6. Schedule a Winter Plumbing Check

Think of this like a tune-up for your home’s plumbing. One quick visit can save you hundreds later.
We’ll inspect:

Pipe insulation and freeze risk areas
Water heater performance
Sump pump function
Leaks or slow drains
Water pressure and shut-off valve access

Fast Service. Fair Price. Family Values.

That’s the Jake Miller way.

Call 317-861-8334 or visit jakemillerplumbing.com to schedule your Winter Plumbing Check today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Plumbing

1. What temperature do pipes freeze at?

Water typically freezes at 32°F, but pipes can begin to freeze when temperatures drop to around 20°F or lower, depending on wind and insulation. Pipes in unheated areas (like garages or crawl spaces) are especially at risk.

2. How can I tell if my pipes are frozen?

You may notice no water flow, strange gurgling sounds, or frost on exposed pipes. If a pipe has frozen, turn off your main water valve immediately and avoid using open flames to thaw it — that’s dangerous.

3. Should I turn off my water if I leave town for the holidays?

Yes — if you’ll be gone for several days, shut off your main water valve and drain your lines by running faucets for a minute. That prevents potential leaks while you’re away.

4. How often should I flush my water heater?

At least once a year. Sediment build-up makes your heater work harder and shortens its lifespan — especially with Indiana’s hard water.

5. What should I do if my sump pump stops working during a storm?

First, make sure it’s plugged in and the float switch isn’t stuck. If it still doesn’t activate, call for service immediately — sump pump failure can lead to basement flooding fast.

6. Why do my drains clog more in winter?

Cold weather causes grease and soap residue to harden in your pipes. Combine that with extra holiday cooking and houseguests, and drains clog faster.