Winter in Portland can bring more than just rain — when temperatures dip below freezing, your home’s plumbing could be at serious risk. Frozen pipes can burst, leading to expensive water damage and emergency plumbing repairs.
Here’s how to protect your home before winter hits — and when to call in the pros.
❄️ Why Do Pipes Freeze in Portland?
Portland’s winter temperatures may not be extreme, but even short freezes can cause:
- Outdoor faucets and exposed pipes to freeze and crack
- Under-insulated crawl spaces and garages to trap cold air
- Sudden temperature drops to freeze standing water in pipes overnight
According to the Red Cross, water expands as it freezes, putting immense pressure on even metal pipes.
🧰 7 Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape on plumbing in unheated areas like:
- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Garages
2. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Close inside valves supplying outdoor spigots and leave the outside tap open. This lets any remaining water drain and prevents pressure buildup.
3. Seal Drafts Around Pipes
Use caulk or spray foam insulation to seal cracks where pipes enter walls or floors — especially near exterior walls.
4. Let Faucets Drip During a Freeze
Running water, even a trickle, helps prevent pressure build-up that can lead to a burst pipe.
5. Keep Your Thermostat Consistent
Don’t let your home drop below 55°F, even when you’re away.
6. Open Cabinet Doors
On especially cold nights, open cabinets under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
7. Winterize Your Plumbing with a Pro
A licensed plumber can insulate hidden piping and check for areas vulnerable to freezing.
🔗 Need help? Einstein Pros Portland offers full winter plumbing prep and pipe insulation services.
🛠️ What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe.
DO:
- Shut off your main water supply
- Use a space heater or warm towels (never an open flame) to thaw exposed areas
- Call a professional immediately
DON’T:
- Try to thaw pipes with boiling water or torches
- Leave frozen pipes unattended — they can burst without warning
🧑🔧 Why Portland Homeowners Choose Einstein Pros
At Einstein Pros Portland Plumbing, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners protect their pipes through proper winterization. Our expert team provides:
- Pipe insulation
- Outdoor faucet winterization
- Emergency burst pipe repair
- Seasonal plumbing inspections
✅ Schedule Your Winter Plumbing Checkup Today
Avoid costly winter plumbing disasters by acting early. Contact Einstein Pros Portland for professional pipe protection and peace of mind this winter or call (503) 821-4070.