7 Winter Plumbing Tips Tulsa Homeowners Need Before Freezing Temperatures Arrive
Cold weather arrives early in Tulsa, and November and December are the most important months to prepare your plumbing system. Sudden temperature drops, holiday hosting, and increased water usage can all strain your home. Taking a few preventative steps now can save you from costly repairs during the coldest part of winter.
Alert Plumbing, Leak Detect and Drains has served Tulsa for more than 25 years, so we understand the challenges local homeowners face. These are the most important winter plumbing steps you should take before temperatures fall below freezing.
1. Insulate vulnerable pipes before the first freeze
Any pipes near exterior walls, attics, garages, or crawl spaces are at risk. Pipe insulation helps reduce heat loss and prevents freezing. This is especially important in older Tulsa homes where ducts and plumbing run through unconditioned areas.
2. Disconnect outdoor hoses and shut off exterior water lines
Leaving hoses connected traps water in the faucet and can cause the hose bib to freeze. This often leads to burst pipes inside the wall. Shut off exterior valves completely and allow any remaining water to drain out.
3. Schedule a water heater check before holiday usage increases
December is one of the most common months for water heater failure. Extra guests, more showers, and colder incoming water all demand more from your system. Having a technician inspect the burner, heating element, and pressure valve helps ensure reliable performance all season.
4. Let faucets drip during severe cold
A slow drip keeps water moving through the line. This prevents pressure buildup and lowers the chance of a frozen pipe during extreme cold snaps. This simple step can prevent major flooding inside the home.
5. Open under-sink cabinets during freezing nights
Sink pipes located on exterior walls are prone to freezing. Opening cabinet doors allows warm indoor air to circulate around them, reducing the freeze risk overnight.
6. Check your home for hidden leaks
Even small leaks can freeze and expand into major breaks when temperatures drop. Look for moisture around toilets, under sinks, behind appliances, and near your water heater. Early detection saves time and money.
7. Know who to call for a plumbing emergency
Winter is the busiest season for plumbing issues. Having a trusted Tulsa plumber available 24/7 gives you peace of mind. Alert Plumbing, Leak Detect and Drains provides fast emergency service throughout the Tulsa area, even on holidays.
Final Thoughts
Preparing now is the best way to avoid unexpected plumbing disasters when temperatures fall. If you want a full home plumbing safety inspection or need emergency help, our trained technicians are ready to keep your home protected all winter long. Contact us online, or call (918) 221-8638 today!
