The pre-winter plumbing checklist for a DFW home takes 30–45 minutes and costs almost nothing. It covers outdoor faucets, pipe insulation, water heater condition, and shutoff valve function — the four areas that account for the majority of winter damage claims in the region.
This is a practical checklist, not a theoretical one. Run through it in October or early November, before the first hard freeze is forecast.
nnOutdoor Faucets and Irrigation
n□ Disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor faucets (critical — leaving a hose connected defeats frost-proof faucet design). □ Shut off and drain the irrigation system; blow out the lines if you have a blowout port. □ Test each outdoor faucet shutoff valve to confirm it opens and closes fully — seized valves are a problem you want to discover before an emergency, not during one.
nnExposed Pipe Runs
n□ Inspect pipe runs in the attic, garage, and crawl space. □ Any pipe in an unheated space without insulation wrap — add it now. Foam pipe insulation costs $1–$2 per linear foot and takes minutes to install. □ For the highest-risk runs, heat tape (self-regulating electric tape) provides active protection during sustained cold.
nnWater Heater
n□ Test hot water recovery — fill a tub with cold water, time how long it takes to recover to hot. If recovery is noticeably slower than last year, schedule a service call. □ Confirm the T&P relief valve isn't weeping or dripping. □ Check the age — if your tank is over 10 years old without maintenance history, schedule a flush and inspection before winter demand peaks.
nnShutoffs and Emergency Readiness
n□ Locate and test the main water shutoff valve. □ Locate and test individual shutoffs under sinks and behind toilets. □ Post the main water utility number and Staggs Plumbing's number (682-284-0966) somewhere visible. A freeze event often means the phone lines are busy — knowing who to call in advance matters.
