How to Protect Your Pipes This Winter: Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Champaign Homeowners
When winter hits Champaign and Urbana, the freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. From frozen pipes to unexpected leaks, a little preparation goes a long way. That’s why the team at Quality Plumbing put together these easy, effective plumbing maintenance tips to help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe and warm.
Why Winter is Tough on Your Plumbing System
When water freezes, it expands—and that’s bad news for your pipes. Frozen water inside your plumbing can create extreme pressure, causing cracks, bursts, or full pipe failure.
Older homes in Champaign and Urbana are especially vulnerable to cold-weather damage due to outdated insulation or exposed piping.
Top 5 Plumbing Maintenance Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Taking a few simple steps now can help you avoid bigger problems later. Here’s what we recommend:
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Use foam pipe insulation or wrap pipes with heat tape, especially in unheated areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces.
2. Keep a Drip Going
When the temperature dips below 20 degrees, let your faucets drip slightly. This keeps water moving and reduces the risk of freezing.
3. Open Cabinet Doors
Open cabinets under sinks to let warm air circulate around the pipes—especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
4. Seal Drafts Around Pipes
Cold air sneaking in through wall cracks or around vents can cause pipes to freeze faster. Seal up any drafts near plumbing with caulk or spray foam.
5. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Remove and store garden hoses. Shut off exterior spigots from the inside and drain any remaining water to prevent freezing and cracking.
Signs It’s Time to Call a Licensed Plumber Near You
Even with the best prevention, issues can still arise. Call a professional if you notice:
- Little or no water flow from your faucets
- Water pooling around your pipes or basement
- Loud clanking or banging noises in the pipes
- A sudden drop in water pressure
Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a major repair. Quality Plumbing is your trusted, licensed plumber near you—serving Champaign, Urbana, and surrounding communities.
How Quality Plumbing Helps Champaign & Urbana Homeowners Stay Safe
At Quality Plumbing, we offer affordable plumbing services that are tailored to winter conditions in Central Illinois. Our team treats your home like it’s our own—showing up on time, doing honest work, and giving you peace of mind when the temperature drops.
We specialize in:
- Frozen pipe prevention and thawing
- Leak detection and pipe repair
- Water heater repair and replacement
- Sump pump installation and maintenance
We might not offer 24/7 emergency service, but we always prioritize quick response times and honest communication when your home needs help.
Stay Warm—and Protected
Winter in Champaign doesn’t have to come with plumbing problems. Follow these tips to winterize your system, and when you need a hand, call the friendly team at Quality Plumbing.
Ready for a winter plumbing check-up? Call us today at 217) 328-5081 or request a free quote online. We’re proud to help our neighbors in Champaign and Urbana stay safe and dry all season long.