Winter Plumbing Tips Every Raleigh Homeowner Should Know
Last winter, I got three emergency calls in one night because of frozen pipes. Here's what I learned helping those families - and how you can avoid the same headache.
I've been fixing plumbing in Raleigh for over 15 years, and let me tell you - North Carolina winters might not be as harsh as up north, but they can still wreak havoc on your pipes.
Just last February, during that cold snap we had, I got called out to three different houses in Cary in one night. All three had the same problem: frozen pipes that burst. What broke my heart was that all three situations could have been completely avoided with some simple preparation.
The Real Problem with Raleigh Winters
Here's the thing about our climate - we get these sudden temperature drops that catch everyone off guard. Your pipes aren't used to staying below freezing for days at a time. I've seen more burst pipes during a 3-day cold spell in Raleigh than I did living in Michigan for five years.
The worst part? Most of the damage happens in crawl spaces and exterior walls where homeowners never think to look.
What I Tell All My Customers
1. Know Where Your Water Shut-off Is
I can't believe how many people don't know this. It's usually near your water meter, but sometimes it's in a basement or utility room. Find it NOW, not when you've got water spraying everywhere.
2. Those Outdoor Faucets Are Your Biggest Risk
Every fall, I remind my customers: disconnect those garden hoses and shut off the water to outdoor spigots. I've replaced more burst outdoor faucets than I can count, and it's always because someone left the hose connected.
3. Let Your Faucets Drip
When we're expecting temps in the teens, let your faucets drip slightly overnight. Moving water doesn't freeze as easily. Yes, your water bill might go up $5, but that's a lot cheaper than a $1,200 pipe repair.
The Crawl Space Problem
Most homes in Raleigh have crawl spaces, and that's where I find most frozen pipes. If your house was built before 1990, chances are your pipes aren't insulated down there. Here's what you need to do:
- Get some pipe insulation foam from Home Depot - it costs about $20 for a whole house
- Wrap any exposed pipes, especially near exterior walls
- If you've got vents in your crawl space, close them when temps drop below 32°F
Signs You Might Have a Problem
Call a plumber immediately if you notice:
- No water coming out when you turn on a faucet
- Strange smells coming from drains
- Water stains on walls or ceilings
- Your water bill suddenly spikes for no reason
Local Resources
The City of Raleigh actually has a great guide on their website about winter pipe protection. And if you need supplies, the Lowe's on Glenwood Avenue usually has the best selection of pipe insulation.
Remember - a little preparation in November can save you thousands in February. I'd rather sell you $30 worth of pipe insulation than charge you $800 for an emergency call on Christmas Eve.
Stay warm, Raleigh!