The Ultimate Guide to Winterizing Pipes in Iowa

Iowa winters are no joke. With temperatures routinely dropping well below freezing, your home’s plumbing becomes extremely vulnerable to damage. Each year, countless homeowners face the dreaded aftermath of frozen or burst pipes—an issue that leads to thousands of dollars in repairs, water damage mitigation, and lost comfort.

But here’s the good news: by preparing your pipes ahead of winter, you can safeguard your home and wallet. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned Midwesterner, this guide walks you through the best, most effective ways to winterize your plumbing system—specifically tailored for Iowa’s unpredictable climate.

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Major Concern in Iowa

When water freezes, it expands. That might not sound like a big deal, but inside a pipe—especially metal or PVC—it can create immense pressure. If the ice blockage occurs between two closed sections of pipe, the pressure can build up and burst the pipe. The result? Flooding, drywall damage, mold growth, and emergency repair costs.

According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, a burst pipe can result in more than $5,000 in water damage on average. And in states like Iowa, where temperatures can dip into the negatives for days at a time, this is not a rare occurrence.

1. Open Up Kitchen and Bathroom Sink Cabinets

One of the simplest and most overlooked tricks? Opening your cabinet doors.

Most plumbing lines in kitchens and bathrooms are located against exterior walls. When the temperature drops, these spots become especially vulnerable to freezing. By opening the cabinet doors, you allow the warm indoor air to circulate around the pipes, helping to keep them at a safer temperature.

Pro Tip: If you have pets or young children, make sure any stored chemicals or cleaning supplies are out of reach when you open cabinet doors.

2. Let Faucets Drip Slightly on Frigid Nights

Moving water is much less likely to freeze than standing water. When the weather forecast predicts subzero temperatures, let your faucets drip slowly overnight—especially those connected to pipes running through uninsulated spaces.

You don’t need a strong stream; even a light trickle can relieve pressure buildup and prevent freezing.

Note: This method is most important when temperatures dip below 20°F for prolonged periods. Use it strategically to balance conservation and protection.

3. Drain Outdoor Irrigation and Pool Systems

Your underground sprinkler lines and pool pipes are often forgotten when prepping for winter. But they’re among the most at-risk.

Before winter hits:

• Drain your sprinkler system by following manufacturer instructions or hiring a pro for a complete blowout.
• Remove, drain, and store pool equipment.
• Don’t use automotive antifreeze—it’s toxic to people, pets, and the environment.
• This preventative step can save you from extensive underground pipe repairs in the spring.

4. Disconnect and Protect Outdoor Faucets

Leaving garden hoses connected during the winter is one of the biggest mistakes Iowa homeowners make. Residual water can freeze inside the hose, work its way back into the pipe, and cause the faucet or wall pipe to burst.

Here’s a 4-step guide to protect outdoor faucets:

1. Shut off the interior valve that controls the outdoor faucet.

2. Open the outdoor faucet to let remaining water drain out.

3. Disconnect and drain the hose completely.

4. Install an insulated faucet cover (available at any hardware store) to protect against freezing temperatures.

These covers are inexpensive and incredibly effective—a smart investment that could prevent thousands in repairs.

5. Insulate Exposed Pipes in Vulnerable Areas

Certain areas of your home are naturally colder—attics, crawl spaces, garages, and basements. Pipes in these zones are prime targets for freezing.

Insulation Options:

• Foam pipe sleeves (pipe lagging): Inexpensive and easy to install.
• Heat tape: Electrically warms pipes; great for extreme temperatures, but must be used with caution and a GFCI outlet.
• Pipe wrap tape: Looks like duct tape but adds an insulating layer around pipes, especially useful for odd shapes.

If you’ve experienced pipe freezing in a specific area before, take proactive steps to protect those spots before the cold season sets in.

6. Add Insulation to Cold-Prone Spaces

Sometimes the problem isn’t the pipe—it’s the entire room. If your attic, basement, or crawlspace isn’t properly insulated, your pipes will always be at risk, no matter how much pipe wrap you use.

Consider adding:

• Batt or blown-in insulation for attics
• Foam board insulation for basement walls
• Vapor barriers in crawl spaces
• Garage door insulation kits

While some insulation projects are DIY-friendly, others are best left to professionals. A contractor can help assess the R-value your home needs based on Iowa’s climate and your home’s design.

7. Seal Cracks and Gaps Around Pipes

Cold air can sneak in through the smallest openings, especially where pipes pass through walls, floors, and foundations. These hidden drafts can expose pipes to freezing temperatures even when the rest of the house is warm.

Use these materials to seal gaps:

• Expanding foam sealant for larger openings
• Silicone caulk for narrow cracks
• Weatherstripping for doors and windows near plumbing lines

Don’t forget utility openings around dryer vents and electrical outlets—these can also let cold air in.

8. Set the Thermostat to a Safe Temperature

Many homeowners try to save energy by lowering the thermostat while they’re sleeping or away from home. While that can cut heating costs, dropping the temperature too low can be a recipe for disaster.

Set your thermostat to at least 55°F, even if you’re going out of town. It’s a small price to pay compared to a frozen pipe emergency.

Pro Tip: Smart thermostats let you monitor and adjust your home’s temperature remotely—great for those winter trips to warmer climates.

9. Shut Off Water When Leaving Town

Planning a winter getaway? Before you leave:

• Shut off your home’s main water supply.
• Open faucets to drain the water from the system.
• Flush toilets to empty tanks and bowls.
• Pour a small amount of RV-safe antifreeze into drains and toilets to prevent trap freezing.

This step virtually eliminates the risk of frozen pipes while you’re away. Just remember to turn the water back on gradually and inspect for leaks upon return.

10. Schedule a Plumbing Inspection Before Winter

If you’re unsure about your home’s risk level or want to ensure everything is properly protected, call in the pros. A licensed plumber can:

• Inspect vulnerable pipes
• Install proper insulation or heat tape
• Shut off and winterize irrigation or pool systems
• Provide peace of mind that your plumbing is winter-ready

Golden Rule Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical serves the Des Moines metro area with over 20 years of experience. Their licensed plumbers know Iowa winters inside and out—and they offer expert help at every stage of winter prep.

Bonus Tips: Going the Extra Mile

• Install a water leak detector near high-risk areas like basements, behind appliances, and under sinks.
• Know where your main water shutoff is located—and label it clearly.
• Educate your household about signs of frozen pipes: no water flow, strange smells, or frost on pipes.
• Invest in a whole-home insulation audit to identify cold spots.

Don’t Let Winter Catch You Off Guard

Preparing your home’s plumbing for winter isn’t just about convenience—it’s about protection. A little effort in the fall can prevent disaster during the winter.

From foam insulation to faucet covers and full home assessments, you have plenty of options to keep your Iowa home safe and dry. The key is being proactive. Start early, inspect thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to ask for professional help when needed.

Need Help Winterizing Your Pipes?

Golden Rule is here to help homeowners throughout area and beyond protect what matters most. With thousands of 5-star reviews, a reputation for exceptional service, and a commitment to doing the right thing, we’re ready to help you face winter with confidence.

Contact us today to schedule a pipe inspection or winterization service. Let’s make this your most stress-free winter yet.