How to Winterize Your Plumbing in Boise

When to Winterize in Boise

Begin winterization by mid-October. Boise's first freeze can come as early as October 15th, with hard freezes common by November. The Boise Foothills and Eagle see freezing temperatures 1-2 weeks earlier than the valley floor. Don't wait for the first cold snap — prepare while temperatures are still moderate.

Insulate Vulnerable Pipes

Focus on pipes in crawl spaces, garages, exterior walls, and unheated utility rooms. Use foam pipe insulation sleeves ($2-$5 per 6-foot section) for moderate protection. For high-risk areas, install electric heat tape ($15-$30 per section) that activates automatically when temperatures drop. Pay special attention to the hot water line from the water heater if it's in the garage — this line freezes surprisingly often.

• ✓ Crawl space pipes — insulate all exposed runs
• ✓ Garage pipes and water heater lines
• ✓ Exterior wall pipes (kitchen and bathroom on outside walls)
• ✓ Attic pipes if any exist
• ✓ Hose bib supply lines

Protect Outdoor Faucets

Disconnect all garden hoses before freezing weather — a connected hose traps water in the faucet body, guaranteeing freeze damage. Shut off the interior supply valve for each outdoor faucet if available. Install insulated faucet covers ($3-$5 each) on all hose bibs. Consider upgrading to frost-proof hose bibs ($200-$400 installed) that drain automatically when shut off.

During Cold Snaps (Below 20°F)

When temperatures drop below 20°F, take extra precautions: open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks on exterior walls to allow warm air circulation. Let faucets at the end of long pipe runs drip slowly — the small water cost is nothing compared to burst pipe repair. Keep your thermostat at 55°F minimum even when away. If you're leaving town, consider shutting off the main water valve.

Irrigation System Blowout

Your sprinkler system must be blown out with compressed air before the first freeze. This removes all water from the lines, preventing cracked pipes and broken heads. Professional blowout costs $50-$100 — dramatically cheaper than the $200-$600 in spring repairs from freeze damage. Schedule by early October.

Emergency: What to Do If Pipes Freeze

If you turn on a faucet and get no water during cold weather, a pipe has likely frozen. Open the faucet to allow flow when thawing begins. Apply gentle heat with a hair dryer or heating pad — never use an open flame. If you can't locate the frozen section or hear water running inside a wall, shut off the main valve and call us immediately — the pipe may have already burst.

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