Preventing Frozen Pipes: A Utah Winter Survival Checklist
Utah winters are no joke. Between the bone-chilling mornings, icy sidewalks, and the occasional surprise snowstorm in April, the last thing you want to deal with is frozen pipes. Yet every year, countless homeowners wake up to the sound of silence where running water used to be—or worse, a burst pipe that floods the basement.
The good news? You can stop that icy disaster before it starts. With a few smart steps and regular checks, you’ll keep your plumbing flowing freely all winter long.
Why Pipes Freeze in Utah
When temperatures dip below freezing, the water inside your pipes can turn to ice—especially in unheated spaces like crawlspaces, basements, attics, and exterior walls. As water freezes, it expands, putting pressure on your pipes until they burst.
Utah’s fluctuating winter temperatures make things even trickier—pipes can thaw and refreeze, stressing them over and over again.
Step-by-Step: Your Utah Frozen Pipe Prevention Checklist
✅ 1. Insulate, Insulate, Insulate
Start with the pipes most at risk—those in basements, crawl spaces, and garages. Wrap them in foam pipe insulation (you can find it at any hardware store). For extreme cold areas, consider heat tape or heat cables with thermostatic control.
Bonus tip: Don’t forget outdoor faucets! Add insulated faucet covers or wrap them with a thick towel and plastic bag if you’re in a pinch.
✅ 2. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Leaving hoses attached traps water inside the faucet and nearby pipes. Disconnect and drain them before the first deep freeze, and shut off the water to outdoor spigots if your home has an interior shut-off valve.
This one step prevents countless winter plumbing calls every year—it’s quick, easy, and worth its weight in peace of mind.
✅ 3. Keep a Little Heat Flowing
When the temperature drops below 20°F, even indoor pipes along exterior walls can freeze.
- Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F—even when you’re away.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks (especially on exterior walls) to let warm air circulate.
- Close garage doors to protect plumbing lines running through or near the garage.
✅ 4. Let Faucets Drip on the Coldest Nights
A slow trickle of water helps relieve pressure and keeps water moving so it doesn’t have time to freeze. This simple trick can save you thousands in potential repairs.
✅ 5. Know Where Your Main Shut-Off Valve Is
If a pipe does burst, shutting off the water quickly can minimize damage. Locate your main shut-off valve before you need it. Practice turning it off and on so you’re not fumbling in a panic at 2 a.m.
✅ 6. Seal Cracks and Gaps
Cold air sneaking in through cracks near pipes can cause trouble fast. Use caulk or expanding foam around entry points where plumbing lines pass through walls or floors.
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you suspect a frozen pipe (no water flow or strange sounds when you turn on the tap), here’s what to do:
- Turn off the main water supply immediately.
- Open faucets to relieve pressure.
- Use a hair dryer, heat lamp, or warm towels to gently thaw the pipe—never use an open flame.
- Once thawed, check for leaks before turning the water back on fully.
If the pipe bursts or you can’t find the frozen section, call a licensed plumber right away.
How a Home Warranty Helps During Utah Winters
Even with the best preparation, winter still brings surprises. That’s where a home warranty can save the day. SilverBack Home Warranty plans help offset costs of covered plumbing repairs, heating issues, and other cold-weather headaches—so you’re not left out in the cold when something goes wrong.
Our plans include coverage for plumbing systems, water heaters, and more—plus add-ons for specialty systems. It’s protection made for Utah homeowners who know what real winter feels like.
Final Thoughts
Preventing frozen pipes takes a bit of planning but pays off big when the temperatures drop. With this checklist, your home will be ready for whatever Utah’s winter throws your way—keeping your pipes intact, your home dry, and your mind at ease.
Because when winter strikes hard, SilverBack’s got your back.
✅ Helpful Resources:
- Call 801-686-8927 for plan details or questions.
- Order your home warranty online here.