How to Prep Your North Texas Home for Winter Weather (Before This Weekend’s Freeze)
Winter in North Texas can be unpredictable. One weekend it’s 65 degrees, the next we’re facing freezing temperatures, icy roads, and burst pipes. With a winter storm expected this weekend, now is the time to take a few simple steps to protect your home — and avoid costly plumbing emergencies.
At Total Plumbing Service, we see the same issues every winter. The good news? Most of them are preventable if you prepare ahead of time.
1. Protect Your Pipes Before Temperatures Drop
Frozen pipes are one of the most common — and expensive — winter plumbing problems in North Texas.
What you should do now:
Insulate exposed pipes in attics, garages, crawl spaces, and exterior walls
Cover outdoor hose bibs with insulated faucet covers
Disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses
Seal air leaks around pipes near exterior walls
Even a small crack can allow freezing air in and cause pipes to burst overnight.
2. Know How to Shut Off Your Water
If a pipe freezes and bursts, seconds matter.
Make sure every adult in your home knows:
Where your main water shutoff valve is located
How to turn it off quickly
If you’re unsure where it is or it hasn’t been tested in years, now is the time — not during an emergency.
3. Let Faucets Drip During the Freeze
If you’re dealing with a burst pipe, time is of the essence. Water damage can get expensive fast, so follow these steps immediately:
- Turn Off the Water Supply
This is the first and most important step. Shutting off the water stops the flooding and limits damage to your home. - Turn Off Electricity if Needed
If water is pooling near electrical outlets, appliances, or wiring, turn off the electricity in that area. Safety first! - Drain the Pipes
Open all your faucets to drain the remaining water from your plumbing system. - Clean Up Standing Water
Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove water quickly. The less water that seeps into your walls, floors, or furniture, the better. - Call Total Plumbing Service
Burst pipes are not a DIY repair job. Our team at Total Plumbing Service has the tools and expertise to replace damaged pipes and restore your system.
4. Don’t Forget About Your Water Heater
Cold weather puts extra strain on water heaters — especially older units.
Before the storm:
Check for leaks, rust, or corrosion
Make sure the area around the heater is insulated and protected from drafts
Know how to shut off the water and power/gas supply if needed
If your water heater is already showing signs of trouble, winter weather can push it over the edge.
5. Prepare Drains and Sewer Lines
Freezing temperatures can worsen existing drain or sewer issues.
To reduce risk:
Avoid pouring grease or food scraps down drains
Limit heavy water usage during extreme cold
Watch for slow drains, gurgling, or sewer odors
These can be early warning signs of a bigger issue developing underground.
Need Help Before the Freeze Hits?
If you’re unsure whether your home is ready for this weekend’s cold weather, Total Plumbing Service is here to help. A quick inspection or preventative service now can save you thousands in repairs later.
📞 Call us today to schedule service before the storm arrives.
We proudly serve homeowners across North Texas and the DFW Metroplex, and we’re ready when you need us — even when the temperatures drop.
Stay warm, stay safe, and don’t wait until the pipes freeze.
