Winter Plumbing Preparation in Snohomish County: Protect Your Home from Freezing Pipes

Winter in Snohomish County brings beautiful snow-covered landscapes, but it also poses serious risks to your home's plumbing system. As temperatures drop below freezing, unprotected pipes can freeze, burst, and cause thousands of dollars in water damage. At Kojaack Plumbing, we've helped countless homeowners in Everett, Marysville, and throughout Snohomish County prevent costly winter plumbing disasters.

Why Winter Plumbing Preparation Matters in Snohomish County

Snohomish County's winter weather patterns create unique challenges for homeowners. With average winter temperatures often dropping into the 20s and occasional severe cold snaps, pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls are particularly vulnerable. The combination of freezing temperatures and our region's high humidity can lead to rapid pipe freezing, especially in older homes common throughout Everett and surrounding areas.

Essential Winter Plumbing Preparation Steps

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipe insulation is your first line of defense against freezing. Focus on pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape for maximum protection. Pay special attention to pipes along exterior walls, as these are most susceptible to freezing in Snohomish County's winter conditions.

2. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

Remove all garden hoses from outdoor faucets and drain them completely. Water left in hoses can freeze and expand back into your home's plumbing system, causing pipes to burst. Store hoses in a heated garage or basement during winter months.

3. Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Water Valves

Locate the shut-off valve for your outdoor water supply (usually in the basement or crawl space) and turn it off. Open the outdoor faucets to drain any remaining water. This prevents water from sitting in the pipes where it can freeze and cause damage.

Water Heater Winter Maintenance

Your water heater works harder during winter months, making maintenance crucial. Check the temperature setting (120°F is optimal), inspect for leaks around the base, and consider flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup. If your water heater is located in an unheated space, consider adding insulation around the unit and pipes.

Emergency Plumbing Preparation

Winter storms can strike Snohomish County without warning, potentially causing plumbing emergencies. Know the location of your main water shut-off valve and how to operate it. Keep emergency supplies on hand, including a pipe wrench, flashlight, and our contact information. Kojaack Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency plumbing services throughout Snohomish County, including Everett, Marysville, and surrounding communities.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While many winter preparation tasks can be handled by homeowners, some situations require professional expertise. Call Kojaack Plumbing if you discover leaks, notice decreased water pressure, hear unusual sounds from your plumbing system, or if you're unsure about any aspect of winter preparation. Our experienced team serves all of Snohomish County and can help ensure your plumbing system is ready for winter weather.

Don't wait until the first freeze to prepare your plumbing system. Contact Kojaack Plumbing at (360) 966-1561 for professional winter plumbing preparation services in Snohomish County. Our local expertise and commitment to quality craftsmanship ensure your home's plumbing system will withstand whatever winter brings.