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Massachusetts winters can be brutally cold, and if you’ve lived in Essex County long enough, you know that frozen pipes aren’t just a hassle—they can lead to serious water damage and costly repairs. At Morris Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve spent over 20 years helping homeowners in Ipswich and across the North Shore prevent and repair winter plumbing problems. If you want to avoid frozen or burst pipes this season, here are some simple, effective tips to help keep the water flowing and your home protected.
1. Keep the Heat On—Even When You're Away
It might seem like a good idea to lower the thermostat when you’re out of town, but keeping your home at at least 55°F can prevent pipes from freezing. A consistent temperature helps maintain warmth in walls and floors where pipes are often located.
2. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas like garages, basements, crawl spaces, or attics are especially vulnerable. Pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape can provide an extra layer of protection and reduce the risk of freezing—especially during those frigid New England nights.
3. Open Cabinet Doors
For sinks located along exterior walls, open the cabinet doors underneath to allow warm air to circulate around the plumbing. This is especially helpful overnight, when temperatures tend to drop the most.
4. Let Faucets Drip
When temperatures fall well below freezing, let cold water drip slowly from your faucets. Running water—even just a trickle—helps prevent pipes from freezing by relieving pressure in the system and keeping water moving.
5. Seal Up Drafts
Cold air sneaking in around windows, doors, or cracks in the foundation can chill nearby pipes. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal up any gaps or leaks and keep warm air in, especially in areas near plumbing fixtures.
6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses & Shut Off Exterior Faucets
Before the first hard freeze, detach all garden hoses and shut off the water supply to exterior faucets. Leave those faucets open to drain completely—any remaining water in the line can freeze, expand, and cause the pipe to burst.
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, it could mean a pipe is frozen. Turn off the main water supply and call Morris Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning right away. Our team offers fast, reliable plumbing services throughout Essex County, and we’ll help you address the problem before it gets worse.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Taking a few preventive steps now can save you a major headache later. At Morris Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re here to help you winter-proof your home and respond quickly when emergencies strike. If you're concerned about frozen pipes or need help winterizing your plumbing, give us a call at (978) 961-0338 today.