Winterization Checklist: Protect Your Pipes

Now is the time to prepare your home's water systems for colder weather ahead. Taking a few preventive steps this season can help you avoid costly repairs and protect your property from freeze-related damage.

When temperatures drop below freezing, water inside pipes can freeze and expand with tremendous force, enough to rupture even metal pipes.

These simple maintenance tasks typically take less than an hour to complete but can save you from emergency service calls, water damage restoration, and the inconvenience of being without water during the coldest part of the year.

Shut Down Your Irrigation System

Before the first hard freeze arrives, be sure to turn off and properly drain your irrigation system. Winterizing your sprinkler system now can prevent frozen pipes and leaks.

Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

Remove all garden hoses from outdoor faucets and drain them completely before storing. Water left in hoses or spigots can freeze, expand, and cause cracks in both the hose and the faucet connection.

Insulate Vulnerable Pipes

Pipes in unheated or poorly insulated areas of your home-such as garages, crawl spaces, attics, and basements-are particularly susceptible to freezing. Protect them with foam pipe insulation or heat tape.

Know Your Main Water Shut-off Valve Location

Knowing exactly where your main water shut-off valve is located can minimize damage to your home during plumbing emergencies. Make sure everyone in your household can locate the valve.

Additional Tips & Resources

• Preventing Frozen Pipes
• Hillsboro Water Alerts
• Winterization Tips from the Regional Water Providers Consortium
• Water Emergency Preparedness