January 21, 2026

How to Prepare For A Deep Freeze

A deep freeze is expected over the next few days, along with the possibility of a major winter storm. Prolonged cold like this, especially when paired with heavy winter precipitation and strong winds, often brings problems homeowners don’t plan for until it’s too late.

Frozen pipes, water damage, and costly repairs can happen quickly, especially in vacant or older homes. Power outages are also possible during a winter storm, and that’s often when pipes freeze and burst, and homes lose heat and temperatures drop fast indoors.

Now is the time to prepare, check on neighbors, and share this with friends or family who may not be home or may need a reminder.

Inside your home

Drip Faucets

Let sinks on exterior walls and in basements drip slowly. Moving water is far less likely to freeze and burst pipes.

Open cabinets

Open cabinet doors under sinks so warm air can circulate around plumbing, especially on exterior walls.

Seal drafts

Tape drafty windows if needed, and place towels along the bottom of doors or windows where Cold air sneaks in.

Reverse ceiling fans

Set ceiling fans to spin clockwise at a low speed. This pushes warm air down and helps keep rooms more evenly heated.

Prepare for power loss

If power is lost, indoor temperatures can fall quickly.
Charge phones and battery packs.
Have flashlights ready (avoid candles if possible).
If you use space heaters, keep them away from curtains and furniture and never leave them unattended.
Know where your main water shutoff is, just in case a pipe bursts.

Outside your home

Disconnect hoses

Remove garden hoses, drain them, and store them indoors.

Protect outdoor plumbing

Shut off and drain sprinkler systems if possible. Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers.

Check your vacant or rental properties

A quick check now can prevent major damage later. If a property could lose power or heat, take extra precautions and consider having someone check it during the storm.