How to Drain Pipes for Winter: Essential Tips

---

---

Shut Off Water Main Supply

Preparing your home for the winter months involves taking several important steps to prevent your pipes from freezing and causing damage. The first step is to shut off the water main, cutting off the water supply to your property. This will prevent any water from entering the pipes while you are draining them. Locate the water main valve, which is usually located near the water meter or in the basement. Turn the valve clockwise until it is completely closed.

Run Faucets Until Water Stops

To properly drain the water system in your home, follow these steps:

1. Begin by shutting off the water main to prevent any additional water from entering the system.
2. Open all indoor and outdoor faucets throughout your home. Start with the faucets located on the lowest floor and gradually work your way up.
3. Ensure that both the hot and cold water faucets are opened to allow water to drain from both supplies.
4. Let the water run until no more water is flowing through the faucets. This will ensure that all water is drained from the pipes.
5. Finally, tightly close all the faucets to prevent any water from re-entering the system.

Empty Toilet Tanks

To ensure all water is drained from your pipes, it is important to flush the toilets until the tanks are empty. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet by closing the shut-off valve, usually located behind the toilet near the floor.
2. Press and hold the flush handle until the water in the tank is completely emptied.

Remember, this step is crucial as any remaining water in the toilet tanks can freeze and cause damage to the pipes.

• Turn off the water supply
• Press and hold the flush handle

Drain Water Heater

Draining your water heater is an essential step in winterizing your pipes. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to drain your specific water heater model.

To drain your water heater, take the following steps:

1. Turn off the power supply to the water heater.
2. Connect a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the unit.
3. Open the valve and allow the water to flow out until it stops completely.
4. Once drained, close the drain valve and remove the hose.

Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your water heater model to ensure proper and safe draining.

Tip: Regularly draining your water heater helps remove sediment and prolong its lifespan.

Blow Out Residual Water With Compressed Air

To ensure there is no residual water left in your pipes, compressed air can be used to blow it out. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Attach an air compressor to the main water supply line, using an adapter if necessary.
2. Start with the highest faucet in your home and open it.
3. Allow the compressed air to blow through the pipes, pushing out any remaining water.
4. Move to each faucet in your home, starting from the upper floors and working your way down.
5. Open each faucet and let the compressed air blow through the pipes.
6. Once you no longer hear air escaping, turn off the faucets.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove any residual water from your pipes using compressed air.

Consider Additional Measures For Pipe Protection

In addition to the essential steps outlined above, there are further measures you can take to protect your pipes during winter. One option is to run non-toxic antifreeze through your pipes. However, it’s important to note that antifreeze should only be used in toilets or pipe systems that do not deliver drinking water. Another precaution is to leave indoor faucets slightly open to allow for expansion if freezing occurs. You can also utilize a slow trickle of water as a relief valve to prevent the pipes from freezing. These additional measures can provide extra protection against frozen pipes.

• Insulate Unheated Areas: Ensure that unheated areas such as crawl spaces, attics, and garages are properly insulated. This will help maintain a higher temperature and prevent the pipes from freezing.

• Seal Cracks And Holes: Look for cracks and holes in your home’s exterior and foundation. Seal these areas to prevent cold air from reaching the pipes. Use caulk or foam insulation to seal any gaps.

• Install Heat Cables With Thermostats: Heat cables with built-in thermostats can be installed on exposed pipes to provide a constant source of heat and prevent freezing. These cables are especially useful in areas where extreme cold temperatures are common.

• Use Smart Thermostats For Control: Smart thermostats allow you to control the temperature of your home even when you’re away. By keeping your home at a consistent temperature, you can prevent pipes from freezing. Set the thermostat to a minimum temperature that ensures the pipes are protected.

• Professional Pipe Draining Services Available: If you’re unsure of how to properly drain your pipes or if you want to ensure it is done correctly, consider hiring professional pipe draining services. These professionals have the experience and knowledge to properly winterize your pipes and prevent any potential damage.

draining your pipes for winter is crucial to prevent freezing and potential damage. By following the steps outlined above, and considering additional measures such as insulation and heat cables, you can ensure your pipes are protected during the cold winter months. Taking these precautions will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your plumbing system in top condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you prepare pipes for winter?

To prepare pipes for winter, it is essential to insulate them properly. Shield faucets, outdoor pipes, and those in unheated areas with pipe insulation, which will help prevent freezing. If you don’t have insulation readily available, wrapping them with materials such as rags, newspapers, trash bags, plastic foam, or even bubble wrap can provide much-needed protection. Additionally, remember to cover any vents around your home’s foundation to further guard against the cold. Lastly, drain water hoses and store them in a protected space like a garage or shed to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.

Do pipes always freeze?

While pipes are at risk of freezing when temperatures drop below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit), it is not always guaranteed that they will freeze. However, they are more likely to freeze when temperatures dip to 20 degrees Fahrenheit and below. The risk of freezing pipes increases further if the pipes are exposed to drafts or if they are inadequately insulated. Therefore, although pipes don’t always freeze, it is important to take precautions, such as insulation and maintaining a warm environment, to prevent potential damage caused by freezing pipes during extremely cold temperatures.

1. What are the recommended steps to properly drain pipes for winterization in a residential home?

To properly drain pipes for winterization in a residential home, it is recommended to follow these steps:

1. Shut off the main water supply: Begin by locating the main water shut-off valve and turn it off to stop the water flow into the house. This will prevent any water from entering the pipes during the winter months.

2. Open all faucets and drain valves: Start by opening all the faucets in the house, including outdoor spigots. This will relieve the pressure and allow the water to flow out. Next, locate and open any drain valves on the plumbing system, such as for hot water heaters or radiators. This will help drain the remaining water from these components.

Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific appliances or fixtures, as the winterization process may vary based on the type of plumbing system in the house. Additionally, it is important to open all faucets and drain valves in a specific order to ensure an efficient and thorough draining process.

2. Are there certain types of pipes or plumbing systems that require different methods for draining before winter? If so, what are they and how should they be drained?

Yes, there are certain types of pipes and plumbing systems that require different methods for draining before winter to prevent freezing and potential damage. For outdoor hose bibs or faucets, it is crucial to shut off the water supply and drain the lines properly by opening the valve and allowing any water to flow out. It is also recommended to insulate these bibs or faucets with covers to provide extra protection from cold temperatures.

In addition, swimming pool plumbing systems should be drained partially before winter. In areas with freezing temperatures, the water level needs to be lowered below the skimmer opening to avoid it from freezing and potentially cracking. It is important to follow the specific manufacturer’s instructions for draining the pool plumbing system to prevent any potential damage.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4