Winter Plumbing Checklist — Protect Your Home Before the Freeze

Winter weather in Middle Tennessee can be unpredictable, but one thing is certain: freezing temperatures put extra strain on your home’s plumbing system. A little preparation now can help you avoid burst pipes, water damage, and emergency repairs when the cold really sets in.

At Twenty-Four Hour Plumbing LLC, we help homeowners across Nashville and surrounding areas stay ahead of winter plumbing problems with proactive maintenance. Use this seasonal checklist to protect your home before the freeze arrives.

Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

One of the most common winter plumbing mistakes is leaving garden hoses attached. When temperatures drop, trapped water can freeze, expand, and crack outdoor faucets or connected pipes inside the wall.

Be sure to:

• Disconnect all hoses

• Drain any remaining water

• Install insulated faucet covers for added protection

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Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes in unheated areas—such as crawl spaces, garages, basements, and exterior walls—are especially vulnerable during cold snaps. Insulating these pipes helps maintain consistent temperatures and reduces the risk of freezing.

Pipe insulation sleeves and heat tape are simple upgrades that can prevent costly winter damage.

Check Your Water Heater

Winter means higher hot water demand, which puts extra pressure on your water heater. Before freezing weather hits:

• Check for leaks or corrosion

• Listen for unusual noises

• Ensure the temperature is set correctly

• Consider flushing the tank if sediment buildup is present

A struggling water heater is more likely to fail during the coldest months.

Test Shut-Off Valves

Knowing how—and if—your shut-off valves work is critical in winter emergencies. Test your main water shut-off and individual fixture valves to make sure they turn smoothly and fully stop water flow.

If a valve is stuck or leaking, replacing it now can save valuable time during an emergency.

Drain and Winterize Systems

Sprinkler systems, irrigation lines, pool plumbing, and outdoor supply lines should be properly drained before freezing temperatures arrive. Any water left behind can freeze and cause underground damage that won’t be discovered until spring.

Professional winterization ensures these systems are fully protected.

Consider Professional Winter Prep

While some winter prep can be handled by homeowners, a professional plumbing inspection adds peace of mind. A licensed plumber can identify hidden vulnerabilities, test systems, and recommend upgrades that reduce winter risks.

At Twenty-Four Hour Plumbing LLC, we offer winter plumbing inspections and preventative maintenance services for homeowners across Nashville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, Smyrna, and the greater Middle Tennessee area.

Prepare Now to Avoid Winter Emergencies

Plumbing emergencies are far more stressful—and expensive—during freezing weather. Taking the time to prepare your home now can help you avoid burst pipes, water damage, and unexpected repairs later.

📞 Call Today: (615) 785-3827

💻 Visit: twentyfourhourplumbingllc.com