Cold Weather Plumbing Tips to Start the Year Right

Snowy home front.

As we welcome 2026, the team at Diamond Plumbing would like to thank our customers and neighbors for trusting us with your homes and businesses. A new year is a great time to focus on prevention, maintenance, and protecting one of your home’s most important systems—your plumbing.

Winter weather in Oklahoma can be unpredictable, and cold snaps can quickly turn minor plumbing issues into expensive emergencies. Below are some practical cold-weather plumbing tips to help you start the new year confidently and avoid unnecessary repairs.

1. Protect Pipes from Freezing

Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter plumbing problems—and one of the most damaging.

What you can do:

• Insulate exposed pipes in attics, garages, crawl spaces, and exterior walls

• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses

• Leave cabinet doors open under sinks on very cold nights to allow warm air circulation

• Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold to keep water moving

  
  

If pipes freeze, never use open flames to thaw them. A hair dryer or warm towels are safer options—or call a professional.

2. Check Outdoor Faucets & Hose Bibs

Outdoor faucets often take the brunt of freezing temperatures.

Start the year by:

• Making sure hoses are fully disconnected

• Ensuring frost-proof hose bibs are working correctly

• Watching for leaks once temperatures rise—small cracks often show up after a freeze

  
  

A damaged outdoor faucet can leak inside the wall, causing costly hidden damage.

3. Water Heaters Work Harder in Winter

Cold incoming water means your water heater has to work overtime.

Helpful winter tips:

• Set your water heater to a safe and efficient temperature (typically around 120°F)

• Flush sediment buildup if it hasn’t been serviced recently

• Listen for popping or rumbling noises—these can signal mineral buildup, especially in hard-water areas like Ada

  
  

If your water heater is struggling or producing inconsistent hot water, winter is a smart time to have it inspected.

4. Avoid Holiday & Winter Drain Issues

Winter gatherings, guests, and holiday cooking can be rough on drains.

Best practices:

• Avoid pouring grease or food scraps down the sink

• Use drain strainers in showers and tubs

• Remind guests that wipes (even “flushable” ones) don’t belong in the toilet

  
  

Slow drains in winter can quickly turn into backups when pipes are stressed by cold temperatures.

5. Know Where Your Main Water Shutoff Is

If a pipe bursts, knowing how to shut off your water quickly can save thousands of dollars.

Take a few minutes to:

• Locate your main shutoff valve

• Make sure it turns easily

• Show other household members where it’s located

  
  

This simple step can make all the difference in an emergency.

Start 2026 with Peace of Mind

The beginning of a new year is a great time to stay proactive with home maintenance. Addressing small plumbing concerns early can help you avoid major problems later—especially during cold weather.

If you notice leaks, slow drains, water pressure issues, or suspect frozen pipes, Diamond Plumbing is here to help. Our experienced team proudly serves Ada and surrounding communities with honest advice, reliable service, and expert workmanship.

Here’s to a safe, warm, and worry-free New Year 2026—from all of us at Diamond Plumbing.

📞 Call us anytime you need a trusted local plumber🌐 Or submit a service request online