For those of us who live in a climate where temperatures dip below freezing during winter, special attention needs to be given to protecting our homes against harsh temperatures. Pipes, in particular, are prone to damage from freezing then bursting, leading to potential flooding and costly repairs.

As with most home emergencies, preparedness is your best defence. From Oklahoma’s Champion Plumbing, here are some important steps to take to help prevent a plumbing nightmare this winter.

Prepare water heaters. Making sure your water heater is in good working condition is essential during the winter months. Insulate exposed water heater pipes to make sure your water remains hot and to prevent the pipes from freezing.

Seal any cracks around pipes. Pipes often run along the floor and behind walls, leaving them more exposed to cold weather. That’s why it’s important to seal up any holes on the interior and exterior portion of the wall using caulk or spray.

Flush water heaters. Flushing the water heater helps remove any built-up sediment in the unit. Eliminating the sediment will help extend the life of the unit while also preventing rust and clogs in the drain valve.

Keep your home warm. Making sure your home is well-heated during winter will help keep interior pipes warm. Keep interior doors open to allow the heat to warm the pipes as well as increase circulation in the home. Open cabinet doors on especially cold days to bring extra warmth to pipes located under sinks.

Add extra insulation. Increasing insulation inside of a home will help increase and maintain heat. Consider adding extra insulation in attics, crawl spaces and basements.