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When temperatures drop in Marietta, Georgia, your home’s plumbing system faces more stress than you might realize. Cold nights, fluctuating humidity, and sudden freezes can all cause pipes to crack, burst, or leak — leading to costly repairs and water damage.

To help you stay ahead of winter plumbing issues, the licensed experts at ATL Plumber have prepared this easy-to-follow Marietta winter plumbing checklist.

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1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Start by identifying pipes in unheated areas — garages, crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls. Wrap them with foam pipe insulation or heat tape to prevent freezing. Even a few hours of exposure to sub-freezing air can lead to a burst pipe and major flooding.

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2. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Garden Hoses

Disconnect hoses from outside spigots and drain any remaining water. Install insulated faucet covers to keep outdoor fixtures from freezing. If your home has an irrigation system, have it professionally blown out before the first frost to prevent underground line damage.

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3. Check for Drafts Around Pipes

Inspect areas where plumbing enters your home — such as basement walls or under sinks — and seal any gaps with expanding foam or caulk. Even small drafts can freeze pipes on extremely cold nights in Marietta’s winter weather.

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4. Test Your Water Heater

Your water heater works harder in colder months. Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup, check the pressure-relief valve, and set the temperature to around 120°F for optimal performance and energy savings. If your water isn’t heating consistently, it may be time for a professional water heater tune-up.

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5. Let Faucets Drip During Freezes

When temperatures drop below 28°F, let faucets on exterior walls drip slightly overnight. This small trick keeps water flowing and reduces pressure in frozen pipes — preventing a rupture.

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6. Inspect Your Sump Pump (If You Have One)

Heavy winter rain can cause flooding, especially in older Marietta homes with basements. Test your sump pump by pouring water into the pit. If it doesn’t turn on immediately, call ATL Plumber for sump pump maintenance or replacement.

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7. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is

If a pipe bursts, every second counts. Make sure every adult in your household knows where the shut-off valve is located and how to operate it. Shutting the water off quickly can save thousands of dollars in damage.

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8. Schedule a Winter Plumbing Inspection

An annual inspection is one of the smartest investments for homeowners. A Marietta plumbing inspection from ATL Plumber includes checking for hidden leaks, testing water pressure, and inspecting insulation — ensuring your system is fully winter-ready before the coldest days arrive.

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Final Thoughts

Preventive care now can save you major headaches later. By following this checklist, you can protect your plumbing system from Atlanta-area freezes and keep your home comfortable all season long.

If you need help preparing your home for winter, ATL Plumber proudly serves Marietta, Decatur, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Roswell, and surrounding communities. Contact us today to schedule your winter plumbing inspection.