When winter settles over West Michigan, freezing temperatures can arrive overnight and stay for months. In Grand Rapids, it’s common for temps to dip well below freezing from December through February — and with the lake-effect wind chills, it can feel even colder.
That extreme cold isn’t just tough on people. It’s also hard on your plumbing. When water freezes inside your pipes, it expands, creating pressure that can make a pipe burst. Even a small crack can leak hundreds of gallons of water in a day, damaging walls, floors, and everything in between.
The good news is, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are six simple ways to protect your home and prevent frozen pipes before winter hits its stride.
1. Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
Pipes in unheated or drafty areas—like basements, crawl spaces, garages, or along exterior walls — are the first to freeze. Insulate these pipes using foam insulation sleeves or heat tape to help maintain warmth. Pay extra attention to areas along exterior walls and around garage plumbing, where cold air can sneak in fast during a West Michigan cold snap.
2. Let Faucets Drip on Freezing Nights
When temperatures drop into the teens or single digits, let a few faucets drip overnight. A small, steady trickle keeps water moving through the lines, making it much harder for it to freeze. Focus on faucets connected to exterior walls or located far from your water heater—those are usually the most at risk.
3. Keep the Heat On
We get it—heating bills climb in winter. But turning down the thermostat too low while you’re asleep or away can cost you more in the long run. Keep your home’s temperature above 55°F, even if you’re gone for the weekend. Maintaining steady warmth throughout your house helps protect not just you, but your pipes, too.
4. Open Cabinet Doors
The pipes under kitchen and bathroom sinks are often hidden behind closed cabinet doors, trapping them in the cold. Opening those doors on freezing days allows warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes. It’s a simple habit that can make a big difference—especially for sinks located on exterior walls.
5. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Don’t forget your outdoor plumbing. Before the first hard freeze, disconnect garden hoses, drain them, and store them indoors. Shut off outdoor water valves if you have them, and cover spigots with insulated faucet covers for an extra layer of protection. This helps keep water from backing up into your home’s plumbing where it can freeze and burst.
6. If You’re Traveling, Take Precautions
Heading out of town for the holidays or a midwinter getaway? Take a few extra steps to protect your home while you’re away. Turn off your main water supply and drain the lines by running faucets until they’re empty. If that’s not an option, set the thermostat to at least 55°F and ask a neighbor to check in occasionally—especially if temperatures take a sudden plunge.
When in Doubt, Call the Local Experts
Even with the best precautions, Michigan’s cold can surprise you. If a pipe freezes or bursts, don’t wait—call the professionals at Grapids Home Services right away. Our licensed plumbers provide same-day service across the Grand Rapids area and can quickly thaw, repair, or replace frozen pipes before the damage spreads.
Since 1999, we’ve helped West Michigan homeowners stay warm, safe, and comfortable through every season. From preventive plumbing care to emergency repairs, you can always count on Grapids Home Services for dependable service, upfront pricing, and local expertise you can trust.
If your pipes freeze this winter, call Grapids Home Services or contact us online for fast, reliable repair and peace of mind.