Winterize Your Plumbing – Prevent Frozen Pipes in Ashland & Southern Ohio

Kentucky and southern Ohio may not experience Alaska‑level cold, but winter temperatures routinely drop below freezing. When water freezes, it expands by about 9%, exerting tremendous pressure on pipes. Frozen pipes can burst, flooding your home and causing thousands of dollars in damage. Winterizing your plumbing is essential for protecting your property and ensuring uninterrupted water service.

Identify vulnerable pipes

Pipes running through unheated spaces—garages, crawl spaces, attics, basements, exterior walls—are most at risk. Look for exposed copper or PVC pipes, outdoor hose bibs and irrigation lines. Areas with poor insulation or drafts (around windows and doors) are also vulnerable.

Insulate pipes and fixtures

Use foam pipe insulation sleeves or wrap pipes with heat tape. Focus on pipes near exterior walls or in unheated spaces. For outdoor faucets, install insulated covers or “faucet socks.” In crawl spaces, apply insulation to walls and consider adding a vapor barrier. Seal gaps around pipes entering the house to prevent cold air infiltration.

Maintain heat and airflow

Keep your thermostat set at 55°F or higher, even when you’re away. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing, especially those along exterior walls. Close garage doors to protect pipes located in garages or near garage walls. If possible, add a space heater to unheated rooms (with caution and supervision).

Let faucets drip and shut off outdoor water

When temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, allow cold water to drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. The movement of water helps prevent freezing. Disconnect and drain garden hoses, then shut off and drain outdoor spigots. Turn off and drain irrigation systems or have a professional blow them out.

Prepare for extended absences

If you own a vacation home or will be away for weeks, consider shutting off the main water supply and draining your pipes. After shutting off the water, open faucets and flush toilets to remove water from lines and tanks. Pour RV antifreeze into traps (toilets, sinks) to prevent remaining water from freezing. Have a neighbor or property manager check the home periodically.

What to do if pipes freeze

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, or you notice frost on pipes, you may have a frozen pipe. Keep the faucet open to relieve pressure. Apply heat to the frozen section using an electric heating pad, hair dryer or portable space heater. Never use an open flame such as a blowtorch, which can damage pipes and start fires. Start heating near the faucet and work toward the frozen area. If you can’t locate the freeze or the pipe has burst, shut off the water and call a plumber. Eddyson Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency service to repair burst pipes and restore water flow.

Professional assistance and winterization services

Hiring a professional plumber to winterize your home ensures thorough protection. Technicians can identify vulnerable areas, install insulation, shut off and drain irrigation systems, and provide recommendations specific to your home’s layout. If a pipe bursts, prompt professional repair minimizes water damage and mold growth. Eddyson Plumbing provides winterization services and responds quickly to emergencies in Ashland and southern Ohio.

Conclusion

Winterizing your plumbing is a small investment with big returns. Take proactive steps to insulate pipes, maintain heat and prepare your home for freezing temperatures. If you need assistance or experience a frozen pipe, contact Eddyson Plumbing anytime. We’re here to help you enjoy a safe and comfortable winter.