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How To Care For Your Knoxville Plumbing in the Winter
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Serving Knoxville for 30+ Years
Knoxville homeowners have counted on The Plumbing Authority for over 30 years of honest answers, skilled workmanship, and customer-focused service.
Up-Front Pricing
From plumbing repairs to new installations and everything in between, we offer fair, upfront pricing you can trust with no hidden fees or surprises.
Fixed Right the First Time
Our licensed plumbers get the job done right the first time with accuracy, precision and care so you can get back to your day without the hassle.
Winter is here in East Tennessee, and while Knoxville winters may be milder than those in northern states, cold snaps, overnight freezes, and fluctuating temperatures can still cause serious plumbing problems.
Frozen pipes, burst water lines, and sudden loss of water pressure are some of the most common winter plumbing issues Knoxville homeowners face—especially in older homes and properties with crawl spaces.
The good news is that with the right preparation, you can protect your plumbing system and avoid costly repairs this winter.
Below, our licensed Knoxville plumbers have put together a list of practical winter plumbing tips for Knoxville homes that help keep your pipes safe, functional, and efficient all season long.
Why Winter Plumbing Care Matters in East Tennessee
Knoxville’s winter weather is unpredictable. Temperatures often hover above freezing during the day and drop sharply at night. These freeze-thaw cycles are especially hard on plumbing systems.
When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands. That expansion increases pressure and can cause pipes to crack or burst—sometimes without obvious signs until the ice melts. Many East Tennessee homes have plumbing running through crawl spaces, exterior walls, garages, or basements, which makes them more vulnerable to freezing.
Proper winter plumbing maintenance helps:
- Prevent frozen and burst pipes
- Maintain steady water pressure
- Protect fixtures, appliances, and water heaters
- Reduce the risk of emergency plumbing calls during cold snaps
Insulate Pipes in Crawl Spaces and Exterior Walls
Pipe insulation is one of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes in Knoxville homes.
Pipes most at risk include those in:
- Crawl spaces (very common in East Tennessee homes)
- Unheated basements
- Garages
- Exterior walls
- Under kitchen and bathroom sinks
Use foam pipe insulation sleeves or pipe wrap to protect both hot and cold water lines. Even pipes that have never frozen before can be at risk during extended cold weather or sudden temperature drops.
Local tip: Crawl spaces should also be sealed and free from cold drafts to improve insulation effectiveness.
Keep Your Home Warm During Cold Snaps
Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature is essential for protecting your plumbing in winter.
- Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even overnight
- Avoid shutting off heat in unused rooms
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate
- Seal air leaks around doors, windows, and crawl space vents
If you’re leaving town during winter—whether for the holidays or a weekend trip—consider shutting off your main water supply and draining exposed pipes to reduce the risk of freezing and water damage.
Let Faucets Drip During Freezing Nights
When temperatures drop below freezing, allowing faucets to drip slightly can help prevent pipes from freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water, especially in long pipe runs.
Focus on:
- Faucets located on exterior walls
- Fixtures farthest from your main water supply
If a pipe does freeze:
- Never use an open flame
- Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels
- Thaw pipes slowly to avoid bursting
Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is
If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water quickly can prevent extensive damage to your Knoxville home and the need for an emergency plumber.
Take time to:
- Locate your main water shut-off valve
- Make sure it turns easily
- Show everyone in your household how to use it
In East Tennessee homes, shut-off valves are often located in crawl spaces, basements, garages, or near the water meter.
Protect Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibs
Outdoor plumbing is especially vulnerable during winter in Knoxville.
Be sure to:
- Disconnect and drain all garden hoses
- Shut off water to exterior faucets if possible
- Install insulated faucet covers on hose bibs
- Drain and winterize sprinkler systems
Frozen outdoor pipes are a leading cause of winter plumbing leaks and foundation damage in the region.
Don’t Overlook Your Water Heater
Your water heater works harder in winter because incoming groundwater is colder in East Tennessee.
Winter water heater care tips:
- Flush sediment buildup (especially important in hard water areas)
- Check for leaks, corrosion, or unusual noises
- Make sure the unit is installed in a protected, insulated space
A failing water heater is more likely to break down during winter when hot water demand is highest.
Watch for Early Signs of Winter Plumbing Problems
Catching issues early can prevent major repairs. Call a plumber if you notice:
- Sudden drops in water pressure
- Frost forming on exposed pipes
- Banging, knocking, or whistling sounds
- Discolored or rusty water
- Unexplained moisture or leaks
Need Help with Winter Plumbing in Knoxville?
Winter plumbing issues don’t wait—and frozen pipes can turn into major water damage quickly. If you need help insulating pipes, winterizing your plumbing system, or dealing with a frozen or burst pipe, working with a local plumber can make all the difference.
Our experienced team at The Plumbing Authority understands the unique challenges of East Tennessee winters and can help protect your plumbing system now—before problems start.
Don’t let cold weather catch your plumbing off guard. Contact us today to schedule winter plumbing service in Knoxville, TN!
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