7 Essential Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes When You're Away From Home

As winter weather approaches, the risk of frozen pipes increases, and if you're planning to be away from home for an extended period, the last thing you want is to return to a water disaster. Burst pipes due to freezing can cause extensive water damage, and the cost of repairs can be overwhelming. As a home watch service provider, we understand the importance of maintaining your home in your absence, especially when it comes to preventing frozen pipes.

In this blog post, we’ll share essential tips to help protect your pipes from freezing and ensure your home stays safe, secure, and dry—even while you're away.

1. Keep the Heat On

One of the most important steps in preventing frozen pipes is to maintain a consistent temperature inside your home. Even if you're not there, your thermostat should be set to at least 55-60°F to prevent the interior of the house from getting too cold. The warm air helps to keep your pipes from freezing, especially in unheated areas like attics, basements, or garages. This is especially helpful if your furnace goes out. The higher it is set, the farther it takes to go so low that it could be a problem.

If you use a programmable thermostat, consider setting it to maintain a steady temperature throughout the day and night to avoid any drops in temperature that could freeze your pipes. At Snowbird Home Watch, we check all thermostats at each visit and report on the temperature so you can be assured your home is at the appropriate temperature.

2. Open Cabinet Doors

Under-sink pipes, especially those along exterior walls, are more vulnerable to freezing because they are exposed to colder temperatures. When you're away, leave the cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. This can be particularly helpful in kitchens or bathrooms near exterior walls or windows.

In colder climates, you may also want to leave the doors to your kitchen or bathroom closets open to help warm air reach those pipes, too.

3. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Any exposed pipes in unheated or less insulated areas (such as basements, attics, crawl spaces, or garages) are at high risk of freezing. A simple and effective way to protect them is by installing pipe insulation. Insulating your pipes can help maintain the heat around them and prevent freezing. You can purchase foam pipe insulation at most hardware stores, and it’s an affordable and quick solution that can save you from costly repairs down the road.

4. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Cold air can sneak in through gaps around windows, doors, and where pipes enter the house, causing the temperature in your home to drop—and increasing the risk of frozen pipes. Before leaving for an extended period, be sure to seal any cracks or gaps around the home. Pay special attention to areas where pipes enter or exit your home, as these are vulnerable to drafts. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal windows and doors, and consider foam sealant for larger gaps. These small fixes can go a long way in protecting your home and your pipes.

5. Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Faucets

Outdoor faucets are particularly susceptible to freezing in cold weather. When preparing to leave for the winter, don’t forget to disconnect hoses, drain outdoor faucets, and shut off their water supply. This simple step can help prevent water from freezing inside the faucet or connected pipes, which could lead to a burst pipe when temperatures drop. If your outdoor faucet has an interior shut-off valve, make sure it is turned off, and drain any remaining water from the pipes. For faucets without shut-off valves, consider using foam faucet covers as an extra layer of protection.

6. Consider Smart Technology for Monitoring

If you travel frequently or spend extended periods away from home, investing in smart technology can give you peace of mind. A smart thermostat can allow you to monitor and adjust the temperature remotely, ensuring it stays above freezing. Some models also offer alerts if the temperature falls too low, so you can take action immediately.

Additionally, consider installing a water leak detector near vulnerable pipes or areas prone to freezing. These devices can alert you to leaks or changes in moisture levels, allowing you to catch potential problems early and prevent significant water damage. For more information on water censors, check out our previous blog post.

Bonus Tip: Hire a Home Watch Service

If you're going to be away for a long period, it can be incredibly reassuring to have someone check on your property regularly. A home watch service offers regular checks to ensure your home remains safe, secure, and free from issues like frozen pipes. As a professional service, we can monitor your home’s temperature and look for water problems with the goal to identify problems before they escalate.

At Snowbird Home Watch, we offer personalized home watch services designed to protect your property year-round. Whether you’re away for the winter or just need someone to check on your home while you’re on vacation, we’re here to help. We can also connect you with a list of recommended handyman to help with these close down needs prior to you leaving for the winter.

Wrapping Up

Frozen pipes are a common problem during winter, but they can be prevented with a little preparation and the right precautions. By keeping your home warm, insulating pipes, and being proactive with outdoor maintenance, you can avoid costly repairs and water damage. And if you’re planning to be away for an extended period, consider hiring a home watch service to provide additional peace of mind while you’re gone.

If you are in Minnesota and need resources to find a professional home watch provider near you, visit the MN Home Watch Collaborative.

If you would like to receive all blog updates and helpful resources like these, consider subscribing to our newsletter below.