How to Prepare Your Pipes for Winter in Las Vegas

Posted on November 18, 2022 by oozle

Las Vegas is known for its scorching hot summers, so it may be a surprise to some that homeowners’ pipes can still freeze in the middle of the Nevada desert. During those colder, winter nights it is still important to take the necessary steps to avoid your pipes from freezing. 

Read our guide on how to best prepare your pipes for winter in Las Vegas.

How to Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing

A burst pipe isn’t as common in Las Vegas as it is in colder parts of the country, but can still happen, especially for those who live in a higher elevation. If you live in a higher elevation in the valley, your pipes are at higher risk for freezing. Here are some ways you can prepare your pipes from freezing this winter:

Insulate Your Home

When you apply more insulation to your home, your pipes have better protection from freezing during the winter. Be sure to insulate the colder parts of your home, such as your basement and garage or other unheated areas. That way your pipes will stay warm and avoid freezing. It’s important to also insulate outdoor water piping. Outdoor pipes have a tendency to freeze quicker than indoor pipes.

Turn the Thermostat on Before You Go On Vacation

With the holidays coming up, you may be planning on going on a vacation somewhere. It is common to turn off your thermostat when you aren’t home to reduce heating costs, but it is a great way to avoid even bigger costs in the future. A pipe burst can cost a lot more money, so leaving your thermostat on might not be a bad idea after all. 

Disconnect Hose from Outside Faucet

Disconnect your hose this winter and store it in a dry place. If you keep your hose connected to the faucet, remaining water can freeze and cause damage. Make sure your hose is completely dry before putting it in storage.

Turn On Your Water Faucets 

A temperature of 32 degrees or less can cause your pipes to burst, so it is important to stay up to date with the Las Vegas weather. When you have a better idea on the weather, you can know which nights to keep your faucets running. Turn on at least two faucets, just enough to let a little water trickle out. Moving water is a great way to prevent the water line from freezing. 

Open Cabinet Doors at Night

Before you go to bed, leave your cabinet doors open to keep your pipes warm. You should open any cabinets that have a sink to ensure warm air can enter the inside. Be sure to leave your kitchen and bathroom sink cabinets left open overnight. 

Wrap Heat Tape Around Pipes

Heat tape is a great way to keep your pipes warm. There are a lot of different types out there, so be sure to contact a professional Las Vegas plumber for assistance. A plumber can recommend the best kind of tape to use. 

Have a Specialist Inspect Your Pipes Regularly

Keep up with the pipe maintenance before winter to decide if any pipe repairs or replacements are needed. Plumbers have the right tools and experience to get the job done properly and know what to look for. It’s better to get this taken care of right away before it becomes too cold. Contact your local plumbing specialist to inspect your pipes for you.

Warning Signs of a Burst Pipe

The last thing you want to deal with is a bursted pipe. It can become a costly issue, cause property damage in your home, and create health hazards such as mold growth. It is better to know sooner than later if your pipe has burst so you can avoid further damages, costs, and health issues. Here are some signs to be aware of:

• Fluctuating and inconsistent water pressure
• Puddles underneath your kitchen or bathroom sinks
• Issues with mold growth
• Water bill is higher than usual
• Discolored water
• Leaky pipes or faucets
• Water stains begin to appear on the walls
• Water starts to have a unusual smell

If you are experiencing more than one of these warning signs, then you may have a burst pipe. We highly recommend taking action immediately and calling a local plumber for further guidance.

The Professionals at ProServ Las Vegas Can Help!

Leave any pipe maintenance, replacement, or repairs to the professionals! Whether you are looking for someone to inspect your pipes or are in need of a repair, the professionals at ProServ Las Vegas can get the job done correctly. We are your friendly Las Vegas neighbors who are here to help you avoid any issues in the future. Besides plumbing, we also provide services for A/C, heating, drains, sewers, and appliance repairs.  Contact us today for a free quote!