As the weather cools down, Las Vegas homeowners start prepping their homes for the season ahead. You might be scheduling a furnace tune-up or sealing windows—but don’t forget your plumbing. While we don’t see extreme cold often here, those sudden temperature drops can still cause trouble for outdoor fixtures and exposed pipes. Here’s how to keep your plumbing safe when the desert nights turn chilly.
Keep Your Thermostat Above 55°F
It’s tempting to turn the heat way down when you’re away, but dropping it too low can let your pipes freeze. Keeping your thermostat set above 55 degrees helps water keep moving through the system, protecting your pipes from bursting if temperatures dip.
Turn Off and Drain Outdoor Plumbing
Hose bibs, outdoor sinks, and other exterior plumbing are especially vulnerable to freezing. Before winter sets in, shut off outdoor water lines and drain them completely. This quick step helps prevent cracked pipes during cold snaps.
Insulate Exposed Pipes in Unheated Areas
Garages, crawl spaces, and basements can get colder than you’d think. If you have visible pipes in these spots, wrap them with foam sleeves or thermal tape. In our mild climate, a little insulation goes a long way toward keeping your plumbing protected.
Let Warm Air Reach Hidden Pipes
On unusually cold nights, open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks. It’s a simple trick that lets warm air circulate around hidden pipes and helps prevent them from freezing.
Consider Rerouting Exterior Plumbing
If you live in an older Las Vegas home, you might still have water lines running through exterior walls. When possible, rerouting these lines to interior walls during a remodel can eliminate the risk of freezing for good—and give you long-term peace of mind.
Seal Gaps and Cracks
Cold air sneaking in through small gaps can make nearby pipes more vulnerable. Seal cracks around windows, doors, and exterior walls with caulk, weatherstripping, or spray foam to keep the warm air in and the cold out.
Use Heating Cables for Extra Protection
For pipes that stay exposed or are known to freeze, heating cables are a smart safeguard. These self-regulating cables turn on automatically when the temperature drops, keeping your pipes safely above freezing.
Let Faucets Drip During Freezes
If a cold snap hits, let your faucets run at a slow drip. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and a small increase in your water bill is nothing compared to the cost of a burst pipe.
Drain the System Before Extended Travel
Heading out of town for a while? Draining your plumbing system completely can prevent freezing while you’re away. Open the main bleeder valve and let the water drain out—it’s a simple way to avoid a nasty surprise when you return.
Know What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If your pipes freeze, act fast. Shut off your main water supply to prevent flooding, then gently warm frozen areas with a hair dryer or heat lamp—never an open flame. If the pipe cracks or leaks, call a plumber right away for a safe repair.
Keep Your Home Safe With Bumble Breeze
Even a mild Las Vegas winter can bring big plumbing problems if your home isn’t prepared. The experts at Bumble Breeze are here to help with inspections, winter prep, and repairs to keep your plumbing flowing smoothly. Give us a buzz today to schedule service and protect your home for the season ahead.