Leaving home for the holidays should bring peace of mind—not worries about returning to frozen or burst pipes. Winter travel season often coincides with the coldest temperatures of the year, making your plumbing system especially vulnerable when no one is home to notice early warning signs. With a few simple precautions, you can protect your pipes, your home, and your budget from costly winter damage.
Plumbing business experts recommend preparing your home in advance to avoid one of the most common winter disasters: frozen pipes. When water freezes, it expands, creating intense pressure inside your plumbing. This pressure can cause cracks or fully burst sections of pipe, leading to flooding, water damage, and expensive repairs. Fortunately, you can take several easy steps before heading out the door to greatly reduce your risk.
Start by adjusting your thermostat. Even if you won’t be home, keep your heat set to at least 55°F. This temperature is warm enough to prevent freezing without driving up your energy bill. Also, open the doors to cabinets and vanities that house plumbing—especially in the kitchen and bathrooms. These small spaces tend to trap cold air, but opening the doors lets warm household air circulate around the pipes.
Next, consider your water flow. Allowing a very slow drip from faucets connected to vulnerable pipes can help prevent freezing. A constant trickle keeps water moving, making it harder for ice to form. Focus on faucets that run along exterior walls or in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and garages. While a drip might slightly increase your water usage, it’s a small price to pay compared to a burst pipe.
If your home has exposed pipes—either indoors or outdoors—insulating them is one of the best things you can do before you leave. Foam pipe sleeves, heat tape, and insulating wraps are inexpensive and found at most hardware stores. For outdoor spigots, remove garden hoses, drain any standing water, and install insulated faucet covers.
Another useful precaution is shutting off the main water supply if you will be away for an extended period. After turning it off, run your faucets to drain the remaining water from the lines. This step is especially helpful if your home is older or has a history of plumbing issues. If you have a sprinkler system, ensure it is fully winterized as well.
Smart home technology can also play a big role in prevention. Temperature sensors, leak detectors, and smart thermostats allow you to monitor your home from anywhere. Some devices even alert your phone if temperatures drop too low or moisture is detected around plumbing fixtures, giving you a chance to call a neighbor or professional before a minor problem turns into a major one.
Finally, let a trusted neighbor or family member know your travel plans. Ask them to check on your home occasionally, especially during extremely cold spells. A quick walk-through—looking for unusual sounds, leaks, or cold spots—can catch problems early.
With some planning and a few smart decisions, you can enjoy your holiday trip without worrying about your home’s plumbing. A little preparation now ensures you return to a warm, dry, and safe home later.
