Winter Plumbing Tips: Protecting Your Pipes from Seattle's Cold and Rain

Seattle winters are famous for two things: persistent rain and the occasional, shocking cold snap. While our temperatures don't often plunge as low as in other parts of the country, that’s precisely why Seattle homeowners can be caught off guard. When temperatures dip into the mid-20s or below for even a few hours, the lack of proper insulation and preparation can lead to a burst pipe disaster.

But the cold isn't your only concern. The constant moisture and heavy rainfall unique to the Puget Sound area create a different set of plumbing challenges, especially with your exterior drainage and sewer lines.

At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we want to help you proactively protect your home. Here are our essential winter plumbing tips to safeguard your pipes from Seattle’s cold and persistent rain.

Part 1: Protection from the Freezing Cold

While water freezes at 32 degrees, pipes in exposed areas are most at risk when the outside temperature drops below 20 degrees. Since Seattle homes aren't always built for extreme cold, taking these simple steps is crucial.

1. Insulate Vulnerable Pipes

Focus on the pipes that are most exposed to the cold, such as those in your:

• Garage or Carport

• Attic

• Crawlspace

• Against Exterior Walls

You can easily purchase foam pipe insulation sleeves (often called "pipe noodles") at any hardware store. They are inexpensive and can be slipped or wrapped around the pipes to provide a crucial barrier against the cold.

2. Drain and Cover Outdoor Faucets

This is the single most common cause of exterior pipe damage.

• Disconnect Hoses: Remove all garden hoses from outdoor spigots, drain them completely, and store them.

• Shut Off Supply: Locate the interior shut-off valve for your outdoor faucets and turn it off. Open the outdoor spigot to drain any residual water from the line.

• Cover the Spigot: Use a foam or insulated faucet cover to protect the valve from freezing air.

3. Maintain Indoor Heat & Airflow

On nights when temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing:

• Keep the Thermostat Up: Even if you go away for the weekend, keep your home’s thermostat set to no lower than 55 degrees to ensure enough warmth reaches your pipes.

• Open Cabinets: Open the cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks, especially those on exterior walls. This allows warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes.

• Let a Faucet Drip: If a deep freeze is expected, let a faucet—ideally the one farthest from your main water shut-off—slowly trickle cold water. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and a small drip can relieve pressure if ice does form.

Part 2: Protection from Heavy Rain and Moisture

Seattle’s long, wet season and periods of heavy rain can quickly overwhelm your drainage and sewer systems.

4. Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Fallen leaves and debris in your gutters prevent water from draining correctly. When the water backs up, it can pool near your foundation or even cause excessive runoff that floods your main sewer line.

• Clean them out before the start of the heavy rain season (typically late fall).

• Ensure downspouts direct water at least three to five feet away from your home’s foundation.

5. Inspect and Clear Exterior Drains

If you have area drains in your yard, basement stairwells, or driveways, make sure they are completely free of leaves, dirt, and debris. A clogged exterior drain can lead to:

• Yard or basement flooding during a heavy downpour.

• Soil saturation near your sewer line, increasing the risk of tree root intrusion.

6. Be Wary of Sewer Backups

Heavy rainfall can saturate the ground, putting pressure on aging sewer lines. If your street’s system is overwhelmed, you could face a sewage backup.

• Look for warning signs: Gurgling toilets, slow-draining tubs/showers, or foul odors after a storm are all red flags.

• Schedule a Sewer Scope: If your home is older or surrounded by mature trees, a professional sewer scope inspection from Jim Dandy can identify small cracks or root intrusion before a winter downpour turns it into a serious problem.

Know Your Emergency Plan

No matter how well you prepare, emergencies can happen.

1. Locate Your Shut-Off Valve: Know exactly where your main water shut-off valve is (usually in the basement, garage, or utility closet) and test it to ensure it turns easily. If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water quickly is the single best thing you can do to minimize damage.

2. Contact Professionals: If you suspect a frozen pipe, leak, or sewer backup, do not attempt a major DIY repair. Using an open flame to thaw a pipe is extremely dangerous.

Call Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing! We are your local Seattle experts, ready to handle everything from emergency drain cleaning to full sewer line repair, keeping your home safe and dry all winter long.

Don't let the Seattle winter wreak havoc on your plumbing. Contact Us today to schedule a pre-winter inspection!