Prevent a Broken Pipe This Winter

Winter in Wisconsin brings its share of beauty — sparkling snow, cozy nights by the fire, and plenty of reasons to stay indoors. But freezing temperatures can also cause one of the most common (and costly) home problems: burst pipes. A little prevention now can save you thousands of dollars and a major headache later.

1. Keep the Heat On

Even if you’re heading out of town for a few days, keep your thermostat set no lower than 55°F. Maintaining steady warmth inside your home helps prevent pipes—especially those along exterior walls—from freezing.

2. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Check your basement, crawl spaces, and garage for exposed pipes. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to give them extra protection. These materials are inexpensive and easy to install — a small investment that pays off big time.

3. Open Cabinet Doors

In the kitchen and bathrooms, open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around plumbing, especially when temperatures drop into the single digits.

4. Let Faucets Drip

Allowing a slight trickle of water from your faucets keeps water moving through the pipes, reducing pressure buildup that can cause a burst if freezing does occur.

5. Seal Drafts

Cold air sneaks in through cracks and gaps near windows, doors, and the foundation. Use weather stripping, caulk, or spray foam to seal leaks and keep the cold out — and your heating bills down.

6. Know Where Your Shut-Off Valve Is

If a pipe does freeze or burst, quickly turning off the main water supply can minimize damage. Make sure everyone in the household knows where the shut-off valve is located and how to operate it.

7. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Before the first hard freeze, detach and drain garden hoses. Shut off and drain outdoor faucets (or install frost-proof spigots) to keep ice from backing up into the plumbing.

Taking these simple steps before temperatures drop can make all the difference. A little prevention now keeps your home safe, your plumbing intact, and your winter worry-free.

At Accent Realty, we know a well-maintained home isn’t just more comfortable — it’s more valuable. Stay warm, stay prepared, and let’s make this winter your coziest one yet.