5 Plumbing Tips That All Homeowners Must Know

February 12, 2025

Brrr, it’s cold. And if YOU’RE cold, think how your pipes feel. Ok, pipes can’t feel, but they are affected by freezing temperatures and Mother Nature’s elements. This month, we’re helping you safeguard your pipes and home from bad weather as we navigate the winter chill.

Here are five pro plumbing tips to keep your pipes in shape and save you from major headaches.

Buddy Up to a Neighbor

If you're heading out of town for a winter trip, your neighbor can be your best ally. Ask them to check on your home while you're away and keep an eye on the outdoor faucets and pipes. You can return the favor when they’re away, too. It’s a simple way to avoid dealing with burst pipes and an emergency plumbing call when you return home!

Ask your neighbor to check on your plumbing while you’re away (and vice versa). It’s a simple favor that could save you from frozen pipes and flooding.
Bring them cookies or hot cocoa as a thank-you. Who doesn’t love a free treat?

Winterize Your Toilet

On rare occasions, your toilet can freeze, too—especially in cold, rarely used bathrooms or basements. If the water in the tank freezes, you’re in for a nasty surprise when you try to flush.

Cover the toilet tank with a towel or blanket to stabilize the temperature.
Consider adding a small space heater to the bathroom (but never leave it unattended). If you have an old toilet, consider upgrading to one that’s better insulated.

Use a Hairdryer to Thaw Frozen Pipes

If you have a frozen pipe but can’t get a plumber out immediately, you can safely thaw it using a hairdryer. This is a quick, DIY fix to prevent the pipe from bursting.

Start at the faucet end of the pipe and slowly work your way down with the hairdryer, using low heat. Be patient and keep the dryer moving to avoid overheating any part of the pipe.
Never use an open flame or space heater for this; for safety, stick to a hairdryer or heat tape! Call us!

Open Cabinet Doors to Warm Pipes

During cold snaps, open the cabinet doors under sinks (especially those on exterior walls) to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. This helps prevent them from freezing.

Open the cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathroom overnight during freezing weather.
You might also leave a faucet slightly dripping to keep water moving.

Adjust the Water Heater Temperature

Are your heating or water bills higher than usual? Consider adjusting the temperature on your water heater one or two degrees. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends a water heater setting of 120 degrees to maintain efficiency and safety.

Upgrade to a tankless water heater if your current system is over 10 years old or starting to fail. Blue Dot can advise you on the best system for your home. Call us!
Get your water heater flushed once a year to prevent unwanted repairs.

Beat the Cold: Call Blue Dot

With these simple plumbing tips, you can protect your home from freezing pipes and avoid costly repairs. Winterizing your home doesn’t have to be a chore. If you keep up with regular maintenance checks, your system should run smoothly. Blue Dot is always just a phone call away when you need plumbing repairs and heating system repairs, too! Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the winter season in your cozy home!