How to Winterize Your Plumbing in Lubbock, TX: 5 Must-Know Tips to Avoid Frozen Pipes
As winter rolls into West Texas, Lubbock homeowners need to prepare for more than just chilly winds and icy roads. While our winters might be milder than up north, Lubbock’s sudden cold snaps and freezing nights can wreak havoc on your plumbing if you’re not prepared.
At Cotton City Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand how one frozen pipe can turn into a costly emergency. So we’ve put together this easy guide to help you winterize your plumbing system and protect your home during the colder months.
Why Winterizing Plumbing Matters in Lubbock
Even though Lubbock doesn’t see snow all winter long, temperatures can dip well below freezing overnight—especially during those late January and February cold fronts. And with older homes or exposed outdoor pipes, frozen plumbing becomes a real risk.
When pipes freeze, the water inside expands, which can cause cracks, bursts, and leaks—leading to water damage, high repair bills, and lost water.
5 Simple Ways to Winterize Your Plumbing in Lubbock
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
One of the easiest and most effective steps is wrapping your exposed pipes—especially those in:
Garages
Crawl spaces
Attics
Outdoor walls
Use foam pipe insulation, heat tape, or even pool noodles for a quick DIY solution. Local hardware stores in Lubbock (like Home Depot, Lowe’s, or West Texas Plumbing Supply) usually stock these.
🛠️ Pro Tip: Not sure which pipes need insulation? Give us a call—we’ll inspect and insulate high-risk areas.
2. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Leaving a garden hose attached during a freeze can cause water to back up into the pipe—and freeze.
Disconnect all outdoor hoses
Drain any water left inside
Cover hose bibs (outdoor faucets) with insulated covers
These bib covers are inexpensive and widely available in Lubbock stores before winter hits.
3. Let Faucets Drip on Freezing Nights
When the temps drop below 28°F, leave cold water dripping slowly from the faucet furthest from your water main. This keeps water moving, which helps prevent freezing.
Bonus: Open cabinet doors under sinks (especially on exterior walls) to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
4. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Cold air can sneak into your home through tiny openings near pipes. Check around:
Windows
Foundations
Pipe entry points
Use caulk or expanding foam to seal gaps and keep your plumbing safe from cold air intrusion.
5. Flush and Check Your Water Heater
Your water heater works overtime during the winter. Make sure it’s ready by:
Flushing out sediment (especially with Lubbock’s hard water)
Checking the temperature setting (120°F is ideal)
Insulating the heater and its pipes
If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be time for a check-up or replacement. We offer free consultations to evaluate its performance.
Bonus Tip: Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Is
If a pipe does burst, shutting off the water quickly can minimize damage. Take a few minutes to locate your main shut-off valve, and make sure it turns easily.
Don’t Want to DIY? Call Cotton City Plumbing!
We get it—not everyone has the time (or desire) to crawl under the house with pipe wrap. That’s why Cotton City Plumbing offers affordable winterization services for homes and businesses across Lubbock.
Whether you need:
A full home inspection
Professional pipe insulation
Water heater maintenance
Emergency plumbing repair
We’ve got you covered—local, licensed, and Lubbock proud. Contact Cotton City Plumbing today and let us take care of everything for you!