Your seemingly sturdy pipes throughout your house are actually quite vulnerable to dropping temperatures. Stagnant water inside pipes can freeze and expand, warping and cracking your pipes in the process. And those cracked pipes can lead to water damage, and costly repairs.

Avoid potential headaches by doing the following:

• Examine the pipes in the unheated parts of your home. If any need to be insulated, there are a variety of products to keep them cozy and warm such as pre-slit foam, glass wool and others. You might even consider wrapping pipes in electrical heating tape, but just be sure to safely follow the manufacturer’s directions.
• Spot-check the walls around your pipes for holes that could let in a chilling winter wind. If you find any trouble areas, just plug up the opening with a caulking gun.
• Every house reacts differently, but if you’re unsure about a safe temperature to set the thermostat, don’t go lower than 55 degrees. While you may be able to squeak by with a lower temperature, 55 degrees is the base level considered safe for pipes.
• Consider turning off and draining your outside hose bibs. These faucets are particularly vulnerable to freezing.

Don’t get caught out in the cold this season. Take the necessary measures to ensure that your pipes and house are safe from plummeting temperatures. That way you can all snuggle up next to a crackling fire with cups of hot cocoa knowing that your plumbing is out of harm’s way.

For some more winterizing tips, check out this cool infographic!