Winter in Central Oregon brings its own beauty—snow-covered peaks, crisp morning air, and cozy evenings indoors. But those freezing temperatures also present challenges for your home’s plumbing system. Without the right preparation, cold weather can cause frozen pipes, water damage, and costly repairs.
This winter plumbing checklist is designed for Central Oregon homeowners who want to protect their investment and maintain water efficiency during the colder months. It’s based on recommendations from the EPA’s Cold Weather Plumbing Tips and decades of hands-on experience from the Einstein Pros Plumbing Team.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
In Central Oregon, where overnight temperatures can drop well below freezing, pipe insulation is one of the most cost-effective steps you can take. Unprotected pipes in crawl spaces, garages, attics, or exterior walls are most at risk of freezing.
- Use foam pipe insulation or wrap pipes with heat tape.
- Pay extra attention to pipes near exterior vents or drafty areas.
- Remember: Even a small crack caused by freezing can waste up to 250 gallons of water per day (EPA Leak Facts).
Internal Resource: Learn more about Einstein Pros’ professional pipe insulation services.
2. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Leaving hoses connected during winter can cause the water inside to freeze, expanding into the spigot and piping. This often leads to burst pipes inside your home’s walls.
- Disconnect all hoses before the first hard freeze.
- Drain any water left inside.
- Store them indoors to extend their lifespan.
For added protection, install frost-free hose bibs—a smart upgrade recommended by the EPA’s winterization guide.
3. Protect Outdoor Faucets
Once your hoses are disconnected, protect outdoor spigots with insulated faucet covers. These covers cost only a few dollars but can save you thousands in repairs.
- Ensure the faucet is completely turned off.
- If your home has a dedicated shutoff valve for outdoor water lines, close it and drain the line.
- For older homes without frost-free fixtures, this is especially important.
4. Service Your Water Heater
Winter increases the demand on your water heater, as incoming water is colder and household usage often goes up.
- Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup.
- Check the anode rod for corrosion.
- Set the temperature to 120°F to balance comfort, safety, and energy efficiency (EPA Water Heating Tips).
If your water heater is over 10 years old, consider upgrading to an ENERGY STAR®-certified model for better performance and savings.
5. Seal Air Leaks Around Pipes
Cold drafts can cause pipes to freeze even in heated areas. Inspect where plumbing enters walls or floors and seal any gaps.
- Use expanding foam or caulk to close gaps.
- Pay attention to areas under sinks, near washing machines, and in utility rooms.
Sealing these leaks also improves energy efficiency—reducing heating costs.
6. Keep a Consistent Indoor Temperature
Extreme temperature fluctuations inside your home can stress your plumbing system.
- Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you’re away.
- On extremely cold nights, open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
- Let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving in pipes—this reduces the risk of freezing (EPA Winter Water Tips).
7. Locate Your Main Water Shutoff Valve
In the event of a burst pipe, shutting off your water quickly can minimize damage. Every homeowner should know where the main water shutoff is located and how to operate it.
- Test the valve once a year to ensure it turns easily.
- If it’s hard to reach or operate, consider having Einstein Pros install an accessible shutoff system.
8. Inspect Sump Pumps and Drainage
Snowmelt in late winter and early spring can cause water to pool around your home’s foundation.
- Check your sump pump for proper operation.
- Ensure discharge pipes are clear of ice and debris.
- Test the system before heavy precipitation.
Proper drainage keeps water out of basements and crawl spaces.
9. Schedule a Professional Winter Plumbing Inspection
While many winterization steps can be DIY, some issues are best addressed by a licensed plumber.
A winter plumbing inspection with Einstein Pros can include:
- Checking all fixtures for leaks.
- Inspecting water heater efficiency.
- Testing water pressure.
- Verifying all pipes are insulated and safe from freezing.
Preventative service now can prevent emergencies later.
Why Winter Plumbing Maintenance Matters in Central Oregon
Central Oregon’s high-desert climate brings dramatic temperature swings. Pipes that freeze and burst don’t just cause inconvenience—they can result in extensive water damage, mold growth, and high repair costs.
By following the EPA’s winter plumbing recommendations and this local checklist, you can:
- Prevent costly repairs.
- Reduce water waste.
- Protect your home’s value.
- Conserve resources for the community.
Final Thoughts
Winterizing your plumbing is a smart, proactive step every Central Oregon homeowner should take. With proper insulation, leak detection, and seasonal maintenance, you can enjoy the colder months without worrying about plumbing disasters.
For trusted, local help with your winter plumbing needs, reach out to the Einstein Pros Plumbing Team. Our experts understand the unique challenges of Central Oregon winters and can help you protect your home from the ground up.