Freeze protection
Freeze protection for pipes, outdoor lines, and shutoffs.
A winter freeze checklist covering outdoor faucets, exposed pipes, shutoff planning, and the first steps to take if a line freezes.
What to check before a hard freeze and what to do if a pipe freezes.
Freeze protection and repair.
Checklist guidance for cold weather, plus help with frozen lines, burst pipes, and water damage.
Common calls
- Emergency help for burst pipes and active water damage.
- Preventive protection for hose bibs, exposed lines, and shutoffs.
- Water-heater checks before cold weather increases demand.
Checklist
Winter plumbing prep before a freeze warning
Handle the high-risk items first so you are not finding the weak spot after the temperature drops.
Disconnect garden hoses
CriticalRemove and drain outdoor hoses so trapped water cannot freeze back into the line.
Insulate exposed pipes
CriticalWrap pipes in garages, attics, and crawl spaces before the next hard freeze hits.
Drain the sprinkler system
CriticalWinterize irrigation lines to avoid hidden breaks and expensive startup repairs later.
Cover outdoor faucets
CriticalUse insulated faucet covers on all exterior spigots and hose bibs.
Plan for dripping faucets
CriticalKnow which lines to leave dripping when a freeze warning comes through.
Locate the main shutoff
CriticalMake sure everyone on site knows how to kill the water fast in an emergency.
Service the water heater
Flush and inspect the unit so it is ready for heavier cold-weather demand.
Open cabinet doors during freezes
Let warm air circulate around vulnerable supply lines beneath sinks and vanities.
During a freeze warning
What helps most during a freeze warning
Let faucets drip
A steady drip keeps water moving through the lines that are most likely to freeze.
Open cabinet doors
Expose pipes to warm indoor air anywhere they sit against an exterior wall.
Keep heat on
Do not let interior temperatures drop too low just because nobody is home.
If a pipe freezes
What to do first if a pipe freezes
Move fast, but do not make the problem worse trying to thaw the line yourself.
- Turn off the water at the main shutoff valve.
- Open faucets to relieve pressure in the line.
- Call us immediately for frozen-pipe or burst-pipe help.
- Do not use open flame or a torch to thaw plumbing.
Burst-pipe damage spreads quickly. If you already see active leaking, skip the checklist and call us or schedule service right away.
Contact Economy Plumbing Services
Frozen-pipe and freeze-protection service
Call us or schedule online for frozen-pipe repair, burst-pipe work, and cold-weather plumbing prep.