How to Protect Your Plumbing During Freezes in the Upstate
Cold snaps in the Upstate don’t happen often, but when they do, they can cause expensive and avoidable damage—especially to outdoor plumbing. A short period of freezing temperatures is enough to burst pipes, damage fixtures, and lead to costly repairs.
The good news is that protecting your plumbing during cold weather is simple and takes very little time.
Why This Matters
When water freezes inside an exposed spigot or a hose that’s still connected, pressure builds back into the pipe. That pressure is often what causes pipes to crack or burst—sometimes inside walls where damage isn’t immediately visible.
A small preventative step now can save thousands of dollars in repairs later.
Simple Steps to Protect Outdoor Plumbing
Most homeowners can reduce their risk of freeze-related plumbing damage by taking these basic steps:
Disconnect outdoor hoses
Leaving hoses attached traps water in the line, increasing the chance of freezing.Cover exterior spigots
Foam faucet covers are inexpensive and easy to install. They provide insulation that helps prevent freezing.Check the fit
Make sure the cover fits snugly and fully encloses the spigot for proper protection.
These steps take only a few minutes and are often overlooked—especially by first-time homeowners.
Helpful Resources
If you’d like a quick reference, you can download a winter freeze checklist here:
Winter Freeze Checklist
You may also find this short video helpful, which walks through the process step by step:
Watch: Protecting Outdoor Plumbing During Freezes
Questions About Home Maintenance?
Cold-weather preparation is just one part of protecting your home long term. If you have questions about maintenance, utilities, or seasonal upkeep in the Upstate, you’re welcome to reach out.
