Cold Weather Plumbing Tips to Protect Your Home This Winter
When winter temperatures drop in Wheaton and Glen Ellyn, our homes face some of the harshest conditions of the year—especially our plumbing systems. Frigid weather can put pipes, drains, and water heaters under serious strain, leading to costly repairs if issues go unnoticed. As a family-owned plumbing company serving the homes we work in every day, Ferrari Plumbing is here to help our neighbors stay ahead of the cold with practical, easy-to-follow tips all season long.
1. Keep Your Pipes Warm
Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter plumbing problems. To help prevent them:
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate
• Wrap exposed pipes with insulation sleeves or heat tape
• Keep your thermostat set consistently, even when you’re away
A little warmth can make a big difference in keeping water flowing.
2. Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold
On especially cold nights, allowing a slow drip from faucets on exterior walls helps relieve pressure inside pipes. This simple step can help prevent freezing—and the burst pipes that can follow.
3. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
If you haven’t already, remove garden hoses and shut off water to outdoor spigots. Any remaining water can freeze inside the line and cause damage that extends into your home.
4. Protect Your Sump Pump
Your sump pump often works overtime during winter thaws. Make sure:
• Discharge lines are clear and free of ice
• The area around the pump stays warm
• You test it occasionally to confirm proper operation
A frozen discharge line can lead to unexpected basement flooding.
5. Know the Warning Signs of Frozen Pipes
Call a professional right away if you notice:
• Little or no water coming from a faucet
• Frost or condensation on exposed pipes
• Unusual smells coming from drains
• Unexplained dripping or moisture
Catching these signs early can help avoid serious damage.
6. Maintain Your Water Heater
Your water heater works harder during the winter months. Keep it running efficiently by:
• Setting the temperature to 120°F
• Flushing it annually to remove sediment
• Watching for rust, leaks, or unusual sounds
For older systems, winter is an ideal time for an inspection.
7. Schedule a Free Preventative Checkup
Routine winter plumbing checkups can catch small issues before they become major repairs. As part of our commitment to the community, Ferrari Plumbing offers FREE plumbing checkups to local homeowners. These checkups help identify vulnerable pipes, assess water heaters, and spot potential cold-weather concerns before they turn into emergencies.
Stay Safe and Warm This Winter
Cold weather doesn’t have to mean plumbing problems. With a few preventative steps—and the support of a trusted, family-owned local plumber—you can keep your home safe, warm, and leak-free all winter long. If you’d like peace of mind this season, Ferrari Plumbing is always here for our Wheaton and Glen Ellyn neighbors.
Luda Ferrari is co-owner of Ferrari Plumbing, a family-owned plumbing company proudly serving Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, and surrounding communities. Alongside her husband, licensed plumber Wes Ferrari, she is committed to helping local homeowners protect their homes through honest service, preventative care, and community involvement.
