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How Do I Winterize My Home to Prevent Freeze Damage?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Protect Your Pipes

The biggest freeze risk is usually your plumbing. Pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces can freeze and burst. Insulate them with foam pipe sleeves or heat tape, especially near exterior walls and in corners.

Let a trickle of water run from faucets on the coldest nights. Moving water freezes slower than standing water. Also, open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach the pipes. If you leave for several days, drain the system and shut off the water at the main valve.

Seal Air Leaks

Cold air sneaks in through gaps around windows, doors, and vents. Caulk and weatherstrip these openings to keep the cold out and the heat in. Pay attention to where utility lines enter the house, like cable and gas lines.

Check the attic hatch and any recessed lights. These are common spots for heat loss. A well-sealed home not only prevents freezing but also lowers your heating bills. If a draft feels strong, it is worth sealing.

  • Inspect window and door frames for gaps.
  • Use caulk around exterior penetrations.
  • Add weatherstripping to moving parts.
  • Seal the attic access panel.
  • Check the dryer vent flap for a tight seal.
  • Look for light coming through exterior walls.

Manage Indoor Humidity

Cold air holds less moisture, so indoor air can become dry. Use a humidifier to keep levels between 30 and 50 percent. This helps protect wood floors, furniture, and your own comfort.

But too much humidity can cause condensation on cold surfaces, leading to mold. If you see moisture on windows or walls, lower the humidity. Vent bathrooms and kitchens when you cook or shower. A simple hygrometer helps you monitor the level.

Prepare Outdoor Faucets

Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets. Turn off the water supply to exterior spigots from inside, if you have a shutoff valve. Leave the outdoor valve open so any remaining water can expand without breaking the pipe.

Cover the faucet with an insulated cover for extra protection. Also, drain and store sprinkler systems and pool equipment. If you have a well, insulate the pressure tank and above-ground pipes. These small steps prevent big messes.

  • Disconnect all garden hoses.
  • Drain outdoor spigots completely.
  • Shut off water to exterior faucets from inside.
  • Cover spigots with foam covers.
  • Drain the sprinkler system.
  • Store pool pumps and filters indoors.

Know Your Shutoff Valve

Every homeowner should know where the main water shutoff valve is. In a freeze emergency, you may need to turn it off quickly to stop flooding. Show everyone in the household how to operate it.

If you live in Columbus, keep the shutoff valve location written down and near the valve itself. Practice turning it off and on once a year. If a pipe bursts, the first step is to shut off the water, then call the pros for cleanup.

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Frequently asked questions

What temperature should I keep my house at during winter?

Set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit when you are away. This keeps interior pipes from freezing. If you have pipes in unheated areas, consider a higher setting. Always check the forecast and adjust before a cold snap.

Should I let my faucets drip during a hard freeze?

Yes, letting a slow trickle of water run from faucets on exterior walls helps prevent freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze solid. Keep both hot and cold lines slightly open. This is especially helpful during extreme cold events.

What should I do if a pipe bursts?

First, shut off the main water valve to stop the flow. Then, open all faucets to drain remaining water. Turn off the electricity to the affected area if water is near outlets. Call local water damage pros to handle the cleanup and drying.

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