Georgia Winters Can Still Wreck Your Pipes

Even though Georgia isn’t exactly known for blizzards, the truth is — cold snaps can (and do) happen. Just a few nights below freezing can cause serious damage to your plumbing system. Every winter, we get calls from homeowners in Cartersville, Kennesaw, and Dallas dealing with burst pipes, leaky water heaters, and outdoor spigots that didn’t survive the frost.

The good news? Most of these problems are totally preventable. Let’s look at the five most common winter plumbing mistakes Georgia homeowners make — and how you can avoid them.

1. Forgetting to Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

One of the simplest mistakes is also one of the most damaging. Leaving your garden hose connected traps water inside the faucet and line. When it freezes, it expands — and boom — your hose bibb or pipe can burst.

Avoid it:

• Disconnect all outdoor hoses before the first freeze.

• Install insulated faucet covers (they’re under $5 at most hardware stores).

• If possible, shut off the valve feeding your outdoor faucets.

2. Ignoring Uninsulated Pipes in Garages or Crawl Spaces

Pipes in unheated areas are at the highest risk of freezing. Crawl spaces, basements, and garages can drop below 32°F on cold nights — especially when winds pick up.

Avoid it:

• Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves or heat tape.

• Close garage doors overnight.

• Let warm air circulate around pipes — open cabinets under sinks when temps drop.

💡 Pro tip: Schedule a pre-winter plumbing inspection with Georgia Plumbing Experts — we’ll identify and insulate high-risk pipes before the first freeze.

3. Turning the Heat Too Low When You’re Away

We get it — energy bills can spike during the winter. But turning your thermostat too low (or off entirely) while you’re traveling can freeze pipes inside walls.

Avoid it:

• Keep the heat set at least 55°F, even if you’re away.

• Open interior doors so warm air can circulate.

• Have a neighbor or family member check on your home during extended trips.

4. Forgetting About the Water Heater

Your water heater works overtime in the winter. Colder water entering the tank means longer recovery times — and if your heater is old or neglected, it’s more likely to fail right when you need it most.

Avoid it:

• Drain and flush your tank once a year to remove sediment.

• Check for rust, leaks, or unusual noises.

• Consider upgrading to a tankless water heater for better energy efficiency.

👉 The Water Heater Pros, our specialized team within Georgia Plumbing Experts, can inspect or replace your water heater before trouble strikes.

5. Neglecting Clogged Drains During Holiday Season

Between holiday cooking, guests, and heavier use, your drains see more action in winter than any other time of year. Grease, food particles, and soap buildup can lead to clogs — or even backups.

Avoid it:

• Never pour grease down the sink (it solidifies when it cools).

• Use sink strainers to catch debris.

• Schedule a professional drain cleaning if water drains slowly.

How to Protect Your Home This Winter

Before the next cold front moves through, take 10 minutes to check:
✅ Outdoor hoses disconnected
✅ Pipes insulated
✅ Thermostat set properly
✅ Water heater serviced
✅ Drains cleared

Taking these simple steps can save you thousands in emergency repairs — and a lot of stress on a freezing morning.

Schedule Your Winter Plumbing Check Today

If you’re not sure whether your home is ready for winter, call Georgia Plumbing Experts today. Our local plumbers provide friendly, professional inspections across Cartersville, Emerson, Kennesaw, Canton, and surrounding areas.

We’ll make sure your home’s plumbing system is protected — so you can relax all winter long.

📞 Call (770) 744-0210 or schedule service online at georgiaplumbingexperts.com.com.