With snow still on the ground and freezing temperatures lingering across the DC area, Bethesda, Potomac, and Montgomery County, winter isn’t letting up anytime soon. Extended cold spells like this can create real risks for homeowners, especially when it comes to frozen or burst pipes.
When water freezes, it expands. Inside a pipe, that expansion creates pressure that can cause pipes to crack or burst, often in areas most exposed to cold air such as exterior walls, crawl spaces, garages, and unheated basements. The result can be costly water damage and unexpected repairs, something no homeowner wants to deal with mid-winter.
Here are a few smart steps DC-area homeowners can take to help protect their homes during prolonged cold weather.
Keep Your Home Warm and Consistent
One of the simplest ways to prevent frozen pipes is maintaining a steady indoor temperature. Even if you’re away, experts recommend keeping your thermostat set no lower than 55 degrees. Large temperature swings, especially overnight, can allow pipes inside walls to dip below freezing.
Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold
If temperatures drop well below freezing, allowing faucets connected to exterior wall plumbing to drip slightly can help prevent pressure from building inside the pipes. A slow, steady drip is all that’s needed. For dual-handle faucets, open both hot and cold slightly; for single-handle faucets, keep it centered.
Open Cabinets Under Sinks
Kitchen and bathroom pipes located in cabinets along exterior walls are particularly vulnerable. Opening cabinet doors allows warm air to circulate around the plumbing, an easy but effective step during overnight cold snaps.
Insulate Exposed Plumbing
Many homes in the DC metro area, especially older properties, have plumbing in unheated or partially insulated spaces. Consider:
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Adding foam insulation to exposed pipes in basements, garages, attics, and crawl spaces
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Sealing drafts where pipes enter the home
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Disconnecting garden hoses and covering exterior spigots
These small improvements can make a big difference during extended cold spells.
Keep Cold Air Out of Garages and Utility Areas
If your garage or utility space contains water supply lines, keep doors closed to limit cold air exposure. Even brief drafts can cause pipes to freeze when temperatures remain low for multiple days.
Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Is
If a pipe does burst, quick action matters. Knowing where your main water shut-off valve is located can significantly reduce water damage and repair costs.
Prepare for Winter Power Outages
Winter storms in the DC area and Montgomery County can sometimes cause power outages. Having a plan, whether it’s a generator, power station, or backup heat source, can help keep your home above freezing even if the power goes out.
A Final Thought for DC-Area Homeowners
Preventative maintenance is one of the best ways to protect both your home and its long-term value. A few proactive steps during winter can help avoid costly repairs and unnecessary stress.
If you have questions about home maintenance, preparing your property for cold weather, or are thinking about buying or selling in the DC area, Pearlman Meekin & Co. is here to help. We’re always happy to be a resource.
