How to Winterize Your Plumbing in Twin Falls

Why Twin Falls Winters Are Hard on Plumbing

The Magic Valley sits at 3,700 feet elevation and sees temperatures that regularly drop below 10°F in January. Pipes in exterior walls, crawl spaces, and unheated garages are at risk every winter. One burst pipe can dump hundreds of gallons in minutes before you can shut off the main.

Steps to Winterize (Do This in October)

1. Disconnect and drain garden hoses

Leaving a hose attached traps water in the spigot, which freezes and cracks the fitting. Disconnect every exterior hose and drain it before the first freeze.

2. Shut off and drain exterior faucets

If you have a shutoff valve for exterior faucets, close it from inside and open the exterior faucet to drain remaining water. Frost-free spigots (standard in newer homes) drain automatically when you close them.

3. Insulate exposed pipes

Foam pipe insulation is cheap and effective. Wrap any pipes in unheated spaces: crawl spaces, attached garages, basement exterior walls. Pay attention to pipes within 2 feet of an exterior wall.

4. Know where your main shutoff is

Every adult in your household should know where the main water shutoff is and how to use it. When a pipe bursts, you have seconds to minimize water damage. Find it now, before you need it.

5. Keep heat on when you travel

Never set your thermostat below 55°F when leaving for winter travel. The cost of a little heat is nothing compared to a burst pipe and water damage claim.

If You Have a Freeze Emergency

If pipes freeze: shut off the main water immediately. Don't use an open flame to thaw pipes — use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels. Call us at (208) 555-0182 for emergency plumbing service. We're available 24/7.