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Even though East Texas winters are usually mild, sudden cold snaps can still cause serious plumbing problems. When temperatures drop below freezing, unprotected pipes can burst, outdoor faucets can crack, and water heaters can struggle to keep up. A few simple steps before the season changes can make all the difference in keeping your Longview home safe and comfortable.

Taking time now to inspect, insulate, and maintain your plumbing system helps prevent expensive repairs later. Our team at Alco Air has seen firsthand how small leaks or overlooked pipes can lead to big headaches when cold weather hits.

In this blog, we’ll share a practical plumbing maintenance checklist to help Longview homeowners prepare for winter, protect their pipes, and keep water flowing smoothly all season long.

Step 1: Inspect and Insulate Exposed Pipes

When temperatures drop in Longview, exposed pipes are the first parts of your plumbing system to freeze. A quick inspection now can save you from costly water damage later.

Start by checking these key areas:

• Outdoor pipes and hose bibs along exterior walls
• Attics, crawl spaces, and garages where pipes are often unprotected
• Under sinks near exterior walls where cold air can seep in

Once you find exposed lines, cover them with foam pipe insulation or wrap them with heat tape. These materials keep water inside the pipes from freezing during overnight cold spells. If some pipes are hard to reach or located in tight spaces, our licensed plumbers can help insulate them safely and effectively.

By protecting your pipes early, you can prevent bursts and keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly all winter long.

Step 2: Check Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibs

Outdoor faucets are some of the most vulnerable parts of your plumbing system during a cold East Texas night. Even a small amount of trapped water can freeze, expand, and crack a pipe or spigot.

Here’s how to prepare your outdoor plumbing before winter:

• Disconnect garden hoses and store them indoors to prevent trapped water from freezing.
• Drain outdoor faucets by letting them run briefly after hoses are removed.
• Install insulated faucet covers to protect against freezing temperatures.
• Inspect for leaks or drips that may worsen in cold weather.

If you’re unsure whether your outdoor faucets are properly winterized, our plumbers at Alco Air can inspect them and ensure everything is sealed and protected. A few simple steps now can prevent frozen lines and expensive repairs once the next cold snap reaches Longview.

Step 3: Drain and Protect Water Heaters

Your water heater works hard year-round, and it needs special attention before winter arrives. Over time, sediment builds up inside the tank, reducing efficiency and making the unit work harder to heat water. Flushing the tank before cold weather helps it perform better and last longer.

Here’s how to prepare your water heater for the season:

• Turn off the power or gas supply before draining.
• Connect a garden hose to the drain valve and empty the tank into a safe area.
• Flush the tank with fresh water to remove remaining sediment.
• Inspect for rust or leaks near the base of the unit.

If you’re not comfortable performing these steps, our licensed plumbers at Alco Air can handle the process safely and efficiently. We’ll ensure your water heater is clean, insulated, and ready to deliver reliable hot water all winter long.

Step 4: Inspect for Leaks and Weak Spots

Even a small plumbing leak can turn into a major problem once cold weather arrives. A few minutes of inspection now can save you from costly damage later.

We recommend checking these common problem areas:

• Under sinks and around supply lines for dampness or puddles
• Around toilets and tubs for slow leaks or soft flooring
• Near your water heater and along visible pipe runs for corrosion or drips

If you notice any signs of moisture, don’t wait to schedule repairs. Cold temperatures can cause even minor leaks to worsen or pipes to burst. Our plumbing team at Alco Air can locate and fix leaks quickly using advanced detection tools. Taking care of small issues before winter hits keeps your plumbing system strong, efficient, and ready to handle Longview’s cooler weather.

Step 5: Test Your Home’s Water Pressure and Shut-Off Valve

Proper water pressure keeps your plumbing system working efficiently, while knowing how to use your main shut-off valve can help you act fast in an emergency. Both are simple checks that make a big difference before winter arrives.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Test your water pressure with a gauge attached to an outdoor faucet. The ideal range is between 40 and 60 psi.
• Look for signs of low or high pressure, such as slow water flow or noisy pipes.
• Locate your main shut-off valve and make sure it turns easily. This valve allows you to stop water flow if a pipe bursts.
• Label the valve location so every family member can find it quickly.

If your pressure is out of range or your valve is hard to operate, our plumbers at Alco Air can inspect, adjust, or replace components to keep your plumbing safe all winter long.

Step 6: Check Sump Pumps and Drains (If Applicable)

If your Longview home has a basement or low-lying area, your sump pump and drains play a major role in preventing water damage during winter rains. Checking them now ensures they are ready for heavier use.

Follow these steps:

• Test your sump pump by slowly pouring a bucket of water into the pit and confirming that it activates.
• Clean the discharge line to make sure it is free of debris or blockages.
• Inspect floor drains in basements, laundry rooms, or garages to confirm they are clear and draining properly.
• Schedule professional drain cleaning if water is slow to move through your system.

Our team at Alco Air can test your sump pump and clear your drains before the next cold front or heavy rain. A quick check now keeps your home dry, protected, and ready for East Texas weather.

Step 7: Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection

Even with regular at-home checks, some plumbing issues can be easy to miss. A professional inspection gives you peace of mind knowing your system is ready for colder weather.

During a winter prep inspection, our licensed plumbers at Alco Air check:

• Pipes and fittings for small leaks or corrosion
• Water pressure and flow for consistent performance
• Insulation and sealants around vulnerable areas
• Water heater condition and efficiency
• Fixture connections for signs of wear or hidden damage

Our experienced team uses advanced diagnostic tools to detect problems before they become emergencies. We’ve helped Longview homeowners protect their plumbing systems for years by catching small issues early and keeping everything running smoothly. Scheduling your inspection now ensures your home is ready for whatever winter brings to East Texas.

Protect Your Longview Home from Winter Surprises

A little preparation now can prevent big problems later. Taking the time to inspect pipes, test valves, and maintain your plumbing system helps keep your Longview home protected from unexpected winter damage. Preventive care is always easier and more affordable than emergency repairs.

Our team at Alco Air is here to help you get your plumbing ready for the season. From water heater service to full plumbing inspections, we provide reliable, local solutions that keep East Texas homes running smoothly.

Before the next cold front hits, schedule your plumbing maintenance with Alco Air. We’ll make sure your system is safe, efficient, and ready to handle the colder months ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Plumbing Maintenance in Longview

How cold does it have to get in Longview for pipes to freeze?

Pipes can begin freezing when temperatures drop to around 28°F or lower for several hours. While Longview doesn’t experience long freezes often, it only takes one cold night to cause damage. We recommend insulating exposed pipes and outdoor faucets ahead of time to prevent costly bursts.

Should I let my faucets drip when temperatures drop?

Yes. Letting faucets drip slightly during freezing weather keeps water moving through your pipes, which reduces pressure and lowers the risk of freezing. Focus on faucets along exterior walls or in colder areas of your home.

How often should I flush my water heater?

We suggest flushing your water heater once a year to remove sediment buildup and maintain efficiency. If you notice reduced water temperature or strange noises from your unit, our plumbers can perform a professional cleaning and inspection.

Can I use heat tape on all types of pipes?

Heat tape works well on metal and rigid plastic pipes, but it should not be used on flexible hoses or soft plastics. Always follow manufacturer instructions and inspect cords for damage before use. If you’re unsure, our licensed plumbers can help install heat tape safely.

What maintenance can prevent plumbing leaks before winter?

Regular inspections, leak repairs, and replacing worn seals are key to preventing leaks. Check under sinks and around fixtures for moisture. Our team at Alco Air can perform a full leak inspection and make sure your plumbing system is ready for Longview’s winter temperatures.