When the temperatures start to dip, your home’s plumbing system faces a new set of seasonal challenges. Frozen pipes, overworked water heaters, and clogged drains can quickly turn into costly emergencies if you’re not ready. Taking time now to prepare your plumbing for winter can save you stress, money, and major repairs once freezing weather hits. Here are five essential ways to protect your pipes, fixtures, and appliances before cold weather sets in.

1. Protect exposed pipes from freezing

Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter plumbing problems—and one of the most preventable. When water freezes, it expands, which can cause pipes to crack or burst. Start by inspecting any pipes located in unheated areas like crawl spaces, basements, garages, or attics. Wrap them with foam insulation or heat tape to help retain warmth. Don’t forget outdoor spigots: disconnect garden hoses, drain the faucet, and shut off the water supply from inside. Taking these precautions now will go a long way toward helping you prepare plumbing for winter and prevent costly leaks later.

2. Flush and service your water heater

Your water heater works overtime in the winter—heating colder incoming water while handling extra demand from long, hot showers and visiting family. To get it ready, drain and flush the tank to remove sediment that can reduce efficiency and lead to corrosion. Check the temperature setting (120°F is ideal) and test the pressure relief valve to make sure it’s working properly. If your water heater is older than 8-10 years, consider a professional inspection or replacement before it fails mid-season. Having a licensed plumber perform maintenance is one of the best ways to prepare plumbing for winter safely and thoroughly.

3. Get your garbage disposal ready for holiday cooking

The holiday season means plenty of big meals—and your garbage disposal will see heavy use. Keep it running smoothly by avoiding problem foods like grease, fibrous vegetables (like celery or corn husks), bones, and pasta. Run cold water before and after use to help flush debris through the system. For a quick clean and deodorizer, grind a few ice cubes and citrus peels. If your disposal is already slow or noisy, now’s the time to have it checked. A little preventative care will keep your kitchen plumbing in great shape through every holiday feast.

4. Make sure your toilets are guest-ready

Winter often brings houseguests, and your toilets need to be ready for extra use. Check for leaks, slow flushing, or running water—these are easy fixes that can prevent bigger problems later. Replace worn flappers or fill valves if needed, and remind everyone to flush only toilet paper (no wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products). A quick tune-up ensures your bathrooms can handle the holidays with ease. When you prepare plumbing for winter, don’t overlook the small fixtures—they can make the biggest difference when guests arrive.

5. Shut off your water before winter travel

If you plan to travel during the holidays, it’s smart to shut off your main water supply before leaving. Even a small leak can cause serious water damage while you’re away. Open faucets to relieve pressure and set your thermostat to at least 55°F to keep pipes from freezing. For extra protection, consider installing a smart leak detector or automatic shut-off valve that can alert you to problems in real time.

Start now to stay worry-free all winter

When you prepare your plumbing for winter, you’re not just preventing frozen pipes—you’re protecting your entire home from unnecessary damage and expense. Whether it’s insulating pipes, flushing a water heater, or checking for leaks, small preventative steps can make a big difference.

If you’d rather leave the job to the pros, call a trusted plumbing expert like those at Knight’s Mechanical to handle your seasonal maintenance. A professional inspection ensures your system is ready for the cold months ahead—and gives you peace of mind knowing your plumbing is winter-ready when you need it most.