If you live in Easton, Bethlehem, Nazareth, or Allentown, you know winter isn’t something to take lightly. When snow starts falling and temperatures dip below freezing, your home’s plumbing system can be one of the first things affected. Frozen pipes, leaks, and burst fittings are all too common throughout the Lehigh Valley — and they can lead to thousands of dollars in water damage if not addressed early.
The good news? You can protect your plumbing system long before the coldest days arrive.
At Mr. Handyman of Easton, Bethlehem, Nazareth & Allentown, we help homeowners across the region prepare for harsh winters with smart, preventive maintenance. Here’s everything you need to know to winter-proof your plumbing before it’s too late.
Why Pennsylvania Homes Are at High Risk
Homes across the Lehigh Valley face extended cold spells, snow, and ice — plus freeze-thaw cycles that wreak havoc on pipes and fittings. Because many homes here are decades old, outdated plumbing systems and poor insulation are common issues.
Cold air seeping into basements, crawl spaces, and attics causes the water in your pipes to freeze. When that happens, the ice expands, increasing pressure until the pipe bursts. Once the ice thaws, the resulting flood can quickly damage walls, floors, and electrical systems.
At-risk areas include:
- Pipes in unheated basements or garages.
- Plumbing in exterior walls.
- Outdoor spigots, garden lines, and irrigation systems.
- Older homes without updated insulation.
Step 1: Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Plumbing
Before temperatures dip below freezing, disconnect all garden hoses, drain irrigation systems, and turn off outdoor water supply lines.
- Shut off your home’s exterior water valve.
- Open outdoor faucets to let water drain completely.
- Add insulated faucet covers for extra protection.
Even one unprotected outdoor spigot can cause a chain reaction — frozen water in that line can back up into interior plumbing and burst a pipe inside your walls.
If you’re not sure how to drain your lines properly, Mr. Handyman of Easton, Bethlehem, Nazareth & Allentown can handle full exterior plumbing winterization for you.
Step 2: Insulate Exposed Pipes
In older Pennsylvania homes, basements and crawl spaces often lack proper insulation — and that’s where most plumbing damage occurs.
Use foam insulation sleeves or heat tape on exposed pipes, focusing on:
- Basement ceilings and crawl space plumbing.
- Utility rooms and garages.
- Pipes under sinks along exterior walls.
This small investment can prevent one of the most expensive types of winter damage. Our professionals at Mr. Handyman of Easton, Bethlehem, Nazareth & Allentown can identify your home’s weak points and install insulation that’s built to last.
Step 3: Seal Cracks and Air Leaks
Cold air creeping into your home can quickly chill pipes. Check for drafts near windows, vents, and foundation openings, especially in basements and utility rooms.
Use caulk, spray foam, or weatherstripping to seal gaps around:
- Pipes entering exterior walls.
- Dryer vents and foundation cracks.
- Basement windows and crawl space doors.
Sealing your home helps prevent frozen pipes and lowers your heating bills — a win-win for the winter season.
Step 4: Keep a Consistent Indoor Temperature
Your thermostat plays a crucial role in protecting your plumbing. Set it to 55°F or higher at all times — even when you’re away.
- Open cabinet doors beneath sinks to let warm air circulate.
- Keep all interior doors open to promote airflow.
- Don’t let rooms near exterior walls go unheated.
If you’ll be gone for an extended period, ask a neighbor to check your home during cold snaps.
Step 5: Flush and Insulate Your Water Heater
Cold water entering your home during winter forces your water heater to work harder. Flushing the tank removes sediment and helps it operate more efficiently.
If your water heater sits in a cold basement or garage, wrap it with an insulation blanket to prevent heat loss. Also, check the anode rod — the small metal rod that protects your tank from rusting. If it’s corroded, replace it before winter hits.
For maintenance or replacement, call Mr. Handyman of Easton, Bethlehem, Nazareth & Allentown for expert help.
Step 6: Locate and Label Your Main Water Shutoff Valve
When a pipe bursts, shutting off the main water supply quickly can save thousands in damage. Most homes in the Lehigh Valley have the shutoff valve:
- Near the water meter (typically in basements).
- Along the main line entering from the street.
Make sure every family member knows where it’s located and how to use it.
Step 7: Check for Warning Signs of Freezing
Before a pipe bursts, you’ll often see (or hear) the warning signs:
- Water pressure drops or stops completely.
- Frost forming on exposed pipes.
- Gurgling or clanking noises when you turn on faucets.
- Damp drywall or ceilings in cold areas of the house.
If you notice any of these symptoms, shut off your water immediately and call Mr. Handyman of Easton, Bethlehem, Nazareth & Allentown for emergency assistance.
Step 8: Protect Plumbing in Vacant Properties
Many homes in the Lehigh Valley sit vacant for part of the winter — whether between tenants, during renovation, or while owners travel. To prevent damage:
- Shut off and drain the water system completely.
- Pour a small amount of antifreeze into drains and toilets to prevent freezing.
- Keep the heat on at 55°F minimum.
- Schedule a quick property check after major snowstorms.
Vacant homes without running heat are among the first to experience burst pipes after a freeze.
Step 9: Prepare for Snowstorms and Deep Freezes
When snow is in the forecast, take simple precautions:
- Run a trickle of warm water through exposed faucets to keep pipes moving.
- Open cabinet doors to expose pipes to warm air.
- Double-check your water shutoff access.
- Have towels and buckets ready in case of small leaks.
If your home loses power during a storm, shutting off the main water valve until heat is restored can help prevent frozen lines.
Step 10: Schedule Preventive Plumbing Maintenance
The most effective way to protect your home is to schedule an annual plumbing inspection. Mr. Handyman of Easton, Bethlehem, Nazareth & Allentown can inspect your pipes, insulation, and water systems before temperatures drop.
Our technicians will:
- Identify vulnerable areas.
- Install insulation and seal drafts.
- Test valves and connections.
- Flush your water heater and drains.
Preventive care takes a few hours — emergency repairs can take days and cost thousands.
Why Choose Mr. Handyman of Easton, Bethlehem, Nazareth & Allentown
- Local expertise: We understand Pennsylvania winters and how they affect local homes.
- Professional technicians: Every team member is background-checked, insured, and trained.
- Dependable service: We show up on time and finish on schedule.
- Guaranteed work: Backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise®.
We don’t just repair — we protect your home before damage ever starts.
Call Today to Winter-Proof Your Plumbing
Cold weather doesn’t wait — and neither should you. Schedule a professional plumbing inspection before the first deep freeze hits.
Call Mr. Handyman of Easton, Bethlehem, Nazareth & Allentown or visit to schedule your winter preparation service today.
Protect your pipes now, and enjoy peace of mind all season long.
