Living in Central Oregon’s high desert means stunning mountain views, crisp winter mornings, and… frozen pipes if you’re not prepared.
When temperatures drop well below freezing, the water inside your plumbing can freeze, expand, and cause pipes to burst — often leading to costly repairs and serious water damage.
The good news? With the right preparation, you can avoid frozen pipes this winter and keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly.
In this guide, we’ll share EPA-recommended winter water tips and local expertise from Einstein Pros to help you protect your home before the cold sets in.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Serious Problem
According to the EPA’s Winter Water Tips, a burst pipe can release gallons of water per minute, flooding your home in a matter of moments.
Beyond the immediate mess, frozen pipes can:
- Damage walls, flooring, and furniture
- Cause mold growth if not cleaned up quickly
- Lead to expensive emergency plumbing repairs
- Disrupt your water supply for days or weeks
Central Oregon’s high desert climate — with its large temperature swings and dry air — makes proper winterization essential.
Which Pipes Are Most at Risk?
Not all pipes freeze equally. You’ll want to pay close attention to:
- Exposed outdoor pipes (hose bibs, irrigation lines)
- Pipes in unheated areas like garages, crawl spaces, and attics
- Pipes along exterior walls, especially those without insulation
- Pipes under kitchen and bathroom sinks on outside walls
If you’re unsure which parts of your home are vulnerable, Einstein Pros’ plumbing inspection service can help identify problem areas before they become costly emergencies.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Following EPA-approved winter plumbing tips can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s a step-by-step prevention checklist:
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Use foam pipe insulation sleeves or wrap pipes with heat tape in areas prone to freezing. Focus on basements, garages, and crawl spaces first.
2. Seal Air Leaks
Cold air entering through gaps around windows, doors, and foundation vents can freeze pipes nearby. Use weatherstripping and caulk to block drafts.
3. Disconnect Garden Hoses
Even frost-proof spigots can freeze if hoses are left connected. Drain and store them before temperatures drop.
4. Keep a Consistent Indoor Temperature
The EPA recommends keeping your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you’re away, to prevent pipes from getting too cold.
5. Let Faucets Drip in Extreme Cold
A slow drip from the faucet can keep water moving and reduce the risk of freezing. Focus on faucets connected to vulnerable pipes.
6. Open Cabinet Doors
In kitchens and bathrooms with plumbing along exterior walls, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If you turn on the tap and only a trickle comes out, you may have a frozen pipe. Here’s what to do:
- Turn off the main water supply to prevent flooding if the pipe bursts.
- Open faucets to relieve pressure.
- Warm the frozen section using a hair dryer, heating pad, or space heater (never use open flames).
- Call a professional plumber if you can’t locate or thaw the pipe safely.
A burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in damage in minutes, so acting quickly is critical.
Extra Protection for Central Oregon Homes
Because Central Oregon winters can be unpredictable, consider adding long-term safeguards:
- Install frost-proof outdoor faucets
- Add pipe heating cables for vulnerable sections
- Upgrade to PEX piping, which is more resistant to freezing
- Schedule an annual plumbing inspection with Einstein Pros to ensure your home is ready for winter
EPA-Approved Water Conservation While Winterizing
Winter plumbing prep doesn’t mean wasting water. The EPA WaterSense Program recommends efficient fixtures and mindful practices year-round. Even when you let faucets drip to prevent freezing, collect that water for plants or cleaning instead of letting it go to waste.
Why Work with Einstein Pros
At Einstein Pros, we’ve helped Central Oregon homeowners prepare for harsh winters for over two decades. We know how high desert conditions affect plumbing systems — and we tailor our winterization services to your home’s unique needs.
From pipe insulation to emergency frozen pipe repair, our licensed plumbers are here to protect your home and save you from costly damage.
Visit our Central Oregon plumbing services page to learn more.
Final Thoughts
Frozen pipes aren’t just a cold-weather inconvenience — they’re a major home risk.
By following the EPA’s winter water tips and working with trusted local experts like Einstein Pros, you can keep your plumbing safe all winter long.
Key Takeaways:
- Insulate, seal, and drain before the first freeze
- Keep indoor temps steady and let faucets drip in extreme cold
- Act quickly if pipes freeze to avoid bursts and water damage
- Schedule a professional winter plumbing check-up for peace of mind