Top Tips for Winter Plumbing Maintenance in Lincoln, RI
Rhode Island’s HVAC Experts for 90+ years!

Winters in Lincoln, RI can be harsh on your plumbing, but there are steps you can take to protect your home from the potential damage. From frozen pipes to leaks, the team at Martel Plumbing & Heating is always here to help with all of your plumbing needs. Give us a call for plumbing maintenance, repairs, and new installations. Or use some of our pro tips to keep your plumbing safe during the coldest months of the year.
Insulate Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are among the most common and expensive winter plumbing problems homeowners will experience. When the water inside of your pipes freezes and expands, it can crack and burst and lead to flooding and water damage. You can avoid frozen pipes during the cold winter months by:
- Insulate exposed pipes in your basement, attic, crawl space, garage, and other areas.
- Open up the cabinet doors under your sinks to allow the air to circulate and warm up your pipes.
- Turn on your faucets and allow them to drip slightly during extreme temperature drops.
- If you suspect your pipe is frozen, act quickly by shutting off the main water supply and calling one of the plumbers at Martel Plumbing & Heating as soon as possible. We’ll come out to safely restore your pipe, fix any leaks, and get on top of any repairs.
Check for Hidden Leaks Before the Temperatures Drop
Even the smallest Lincoln plumbing leak should always be treated seriously. They can quickly spiral into bigger problems, especially when the temperatures drop. Give us a call as soon as you notice the signs of a hidden leak, including:
- Unexpected water bill spikes
- Water spots on your ceilings or walls
- Poor water pressure
- Discolored water
Winterize Your Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibs
One of the easiest yet overlooked ways to winterize your plumbing is by shutting off and draining your outdoor faucets for water. If there’s any water left in your pipes, you risk freezing and messy bursts. Here’s how to handle your outdoor plumbing:
- Disconnect and store garden hoses.
- Shut off the outdoor water supply.
- Drain any remaining water and cover faucets with insulated covers.
Service Your Water Heater
Your Rhode Island water heater works overtime in the winter to bring you the reliable service you need. Make sure it runs efficiently by:
- Flushing out sediment buildup for optimized performance.
- Checking for signs of corrosion, rust, or leaks.
- Adjusting the thermostat to 120°F for your efficiency and safety.
- Consider a replacement if your water heater is at least ten years old and struggling to keep up with your hot water demands.
Allow Your Faucets to Drip
Keeping the water flowing continuously is one of your primary defenses against frozen pipes. It’s wise to allow your faucets to slowly drip during a temperature drop. You’ll avoid water freezing in your pipes and reduce the risk of a costly and messy pipe burst.
Seal Any Gaps and Leaks
Keep your pipes as warm as possible by insulating gaps and leaks in your home. Use caulking, weather stripping or draft guards around windows, doors, and areas where pipes enter your home to keep out the cold air.
Service Your Sump Pump
Winter strategies for plumbing services in Rhode Island often overlook servicing your sump pump. Test your sump pump to make sure everything is working to avoid a crisis when the winter snow and ice thaws and potentially floods your basement.
Stay Prepared for Winter Plumbing Emergencies
Even with the best plumbing maintenance in Lincoln, RI, prevention and plumbing issues can still happen. It’s crucial to stay prepared and ready for anything.
- Make sure everyone in your household knows where the main water shut-off valve is located and how to turn it off.
- Keep a plumbing emergency kit with a bucket, towels, and a wrench ready to go.
- Keep Martel Plumbing & Heating’s number ready to go for emergency plumbing service.
Call Martel Plumbing & Heating for Your Plumbing Maintenance Needs
Staying proactive about your winter plumbing maintenance in Lincoln, RI, can help avoid headaches, freezing pipes, and plumbing emergencies. From emergency repairs to winterization and leak detection, the team at Martel Plumbing & Heating is always here for all the plumbing service you need. Schedule your appointment today!