How to Prepare Your Home for Icy Weather: Essential Tips to Prevent Costly Damage

Icy weather can be beautiful—but it can also cause serious damage to your home if you’re not prepared. Freezing temperatures put your plumbing, heating system, and even your safety at risk. Taking a few proactive steps before ice arrives can save you from burst pipes, water damage, and emergency repairs.

Here are practical tips to help you prepare your home for icy weather.

1. Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costly winter problems.

• Insulate exposed pipes in garages, attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls

• Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor water supplies

• Cover outdoor faucets with insulated hose bib covers

• Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold to keep water moving

2. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Is

If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water quickly can prevent major damage.

• Locate your main water shut-off valve now—not during an emergency

• Make sure everyone in the household knows where it is

• Test the valve to ensure it turns easily

3. Seal Drafts and Cold Air Leaks

Cold air entering your home can cause pipes inside walls to freeze.

• Seal gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulk

• Check garage doors and utility room doors for drafts

• Close foundation vents if recommended for your home type

4. Prepare Your Water Heater

Your water heater works harder during cold weather.

• Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment

• Insulate older water heater tanks and exposed hot water lines

• Make sure the area around the water heater stays above freezing

5. Keep Your Home Warm—Even When You’re Away

Turning the heat too low can lead to frozen plumbing.

• Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F

• If traveling, never turn your heat completely off

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate

6. Clear Walkways and Driveways Safely

Icy surfaces are a major slip hazard.

• Apply ice melt or sand to walkways and steps

• Avoid using hot water to melt ice—it can refreeze quickly

• Keep entrances well-lit to spot icy patches

7. Prepare for Power Outages

Ice storms can lead to extended outages.

• Keep flashlights, batteries, and blankets accessible

• Have a plan to protect pipes if the power goes out

• Never use grills or generators indoors

8. Schedule Preventive Plumbing Maintenance

A professional inspection can catch small issues before freezing weather turns them into emergencies.

• Check for slow leaks or weak pipe joints

• Replace aging or damaged outdoor faucets

• Address low water pressure or unusual noises early

Final Thoughts

Icy weather doesn’t have to mean plumbing disasters or costly repairs. A little preparation goes a long way in protecting your home, your plumbing, and your peace of mind. If you’re unsure whether your home is winter-ready, scheduling a professional plumbing inspection before freezing temperatures hit is always a smart move.

Stay warm, stay safe, and be prepared.