Every winter, North Shore plumbers spend January racing between homes with burst pipes and water damage. The frustrating part is how much of it traces back to a few simple fall tasks that never got done. Spend an afternoon winterizing your plumbing now and you dramatically cut the odds of a freeze-related emergency later.
Outdoor plumbing comes first
- Disconnect and drain garden hoses — a hose left attached traps water in the spigot, which freezes and can crack the pipe behind the wall.
- Shut off and drain outdoor faucets (hose bibs). If you have interior shut-offs for them, close those and open the outside spigot to drain.
- Blow out the irrigation system if you have sprinklers, or have it done professionally.
Protect vulnerable indoor pipes
- Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and along exterior walls with foam sleeves.
- Seal drafts and gaps where cold air reaches pipe runs.
- Know where your main water shut-off is — the single most useful thing to know in a burst-pipe emergency.
Heading away for the winter?
If you travel or have a seasonal property near the coast, never let the heat drop below 55°F, and consider shutting off the main and draining the system entirely. A smart thermostat with a low-temperature alert and a water-leak sensor are cheap insurance for an empty house.
When to bring in a plumber
If you have pipes that freeze every year, an aging water heater, or you are not sure where your shut-offs are, a plumber can winterize the house properly and fix the weak points — far cheaper than a February flood.
Need a plumbing pro on the North Shore?
Get a free, no-obligation quote from a trusted local contractor.
Get a free plumbing quote →Frequently asked questions
When should I winterize my plumbing in Massachusetts?
Aim to finish before the first hard freeze, which on the North Shore usually means October to early November. Disconnecting hoses and draining outdoor faucets is the most time-sensitive step.
What temperature should I keep my house at in winter?
Keep it at least 55°F at all times, even when away, and warmer when home. Consistent heat protects pipes in walls and unheated spaces from freezing.
Do I really need to disconnect my garden hose?
Yes — it is one of the most common causes of a burst pipe. A connected hose traps water in the spigot and the pipe just inside the wall, which can freeze, expand, and crack.