La Porte Plumbing Checklist: Winter-Proof Your Home

Estimated Read Time: 9 minutes

Lake-effect cold hits La Porte hard. A simple winter plumbing checklist can prevent frozen pipes, leaks, and surprise breakdowns. Use this winter plumbing checklist to protect your home and budget. If you need fast help, our 24/7 team is ready. Keep reading for local tips, maintenance must-dos, and how to winterize without stress.

Why La Porte Homes Need a Winter Plumbing Checklist

La Porte winters bring repeated freeze and thaw cycles with lake-effect wind chills. That temperature swing stresses pipes, valves, and seals. Uninsulated hose bibs and crawlspaces are common freeze points, and older homes in areas like downtown La Porte and Michigan City often have longer pipe runs in cold walls. A clear plan now can prevent burst pipes, flooded basements, and insurance claims later.

Here is the good news. With a focused winter plumbing checklist, you can reduce risk, improve efficiency, and extend the life of your water heater and fixtures. If something does go wrong, our licensed and insured plumbers are available day and night to respond.

Step 1: Protect Exterior Lines and Hose Bibs

Exterior fixtures are first to freeze. Start here before the first hard freeze.

• Disconnect all hoses. A hose left on the bib traps water that can freeze back into the pipe.
• Shut off and drain exterior spigots. Use the indoor shutoff valve for each sillcock and open the outside tap to drain.
• Add insulated covers to hose bibs after draining. They are inexpensive and add a layer of protection.
• Seal gaps. Caulk around hose bib penetrations and install escutcheon plates to reduce drafts.

Pro tip: If you have frost-free spigots, they still need hoses removed and the valve body kept clear of debris for proper drainage.

Step 2: Insulate Vulnerable Indoor Pipes

Pipes in garages, crawlspaces, unheated basements, and exterior walls are high risk.

• Wrap with foam sleeves rated for your pipe size. Tape seams and elbows for full coverage.
• Add heat cable to pipes that froze in prior years. Follow the manufacturer instructions and use a GFCI outlet.
• Close foundation vents and repair missing crawlspace access doors to cut wind chill.
• Keep interior doors open where plumbing runs through cabinets to allow warm air circulation.

If the area feels drafty, also look above piping for air leaks around sill plates and rim joists. A few minutes with weatherstrip and spray foam can raise temperatures several degrees.

Step 3: Prep the Sump Pump and Discharge Line

Flooding risk rises when snow melts or a freeze clogs the discharge.

• Test the pump by slowly pouring water into the pit. Confirm the float rises and the pump activates.
• Inspect the check valve. A failed valve can cause short cycling or backflow.
• Heat tape or insulate the first few feet of the discharge line where it exits the home.
• Clear the outlet termination of leaves and ice. Ensure it is graded to drain away from the foundation.

Consider a water alarm near the pit and a battery backup if you have frequent outages.

Step 4: Winterize Your Water Heater

Cold incoming water makes your water heater work harder. Small tweaks reduce energy use and increase reliability.

• Set temperature to 120°F for safety and comfort.
• Drain a gallon from the tank to remove sediment. This improves heat transfer and reduces noise.
• Inspect the anode rod every 2 to 3 years. Replace if more than 50% depleted.
• Check the TPR valve by quickly lifting the lever to ensure it moves freely.

Tankless owners should clear inlet screens, descale if needed, and verify freeze protection is enabled. Keep the unit’s area above 32°F and maintain clear combustion air paths.

Step 5: Stop Leaks Before They Start

Small leaks become big problems in winter. Pressure spikes and contraction can worsen weak points.

• Run a whole-home check: toilets, under-sink traps, supply lines at washers and icemakers.
• Use dye tablets or food coloring to test toilet flappers. Color in the bowl without flushing means a leak.
• Replace brittle supply lines with braided stainless options.
• Inspect shutoff valves. If they seize or drip, schedule service before you need them in an emergency.

If your home has had low temperatures inside, add a slow drip on the coldest nights to keep water moving through exposed lines.

Step 6: Drain Cleaning and Odor Control

Holiday guests and heavy kitchen use strain drains. Cold grease solidifies faster, which traps debris.

• Use enzyme-based cleaners monthly to maintain flow. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage pipes.
• Clean pop-up stoppers, hair traps, and P-traps in showers and bathroom sinks.
• Schedule a professional drain cleaning if you notice slow drains, gurgling, or recurring clogs.

A camera inspection can identify offset joints, root intrusion, or bellies in older clay and cast iron lines common in the region.

Step 7: Safeguard Water Quality in Winter

Winter can concentrate certain water issues when usage patterns change.

• Test water quality to detect contaminants and hardness. This protects appliances and your skin in dry months.
• Replace sediment and carbon filters on time.
• Maintain softeners and reverse osmosis systems per manufacturer schedules.

Cleaner water supports longer water heater life, better-tasting cooking, and less scale on fixtures.

Step 8: Crawlspace and Basement Freeze Prevention

Crawlspaces in Westville, Knox, and similar areas often run cold and damp. That is a double threat.

• Lay down a vapor barrier if bare soil is exposed.
• Add insulation to rim joists and sill plates.
• Use a smart thermostat to keep basements above 55°F when possible.
• Verify basement windows are sealed and latches close tightly.

These steps reduce freezing risk and help with utility costs all winter.

Step 9: What To Do If a Pipe Freezes

Take quick action to limit damage and reduce repair costs.

• Turn off the water at the main shutoff. Open nearby faucets to relieve pressure.
• Warm the pipe slowly with a hair dryer or warm towels. Do not use open flames.
• Start in the warmest section and work toward the coldest area.
• If you see bulging, hear hissing, or suspect a burst, call for emergency service immediately.

If you cannot locate the freeze or you have limited access, our 24/7 team can find the problem and get water flowing again.

Step 10: Schedule Preventative Maintenance

Professional eyes catch small issues early and keep warranties valid.

• Annual water heater flush and safety inspection
• Pro drain cleaning if you had clogs this year
• Whole-home plumbing inspection to test valves, traps, and visible piping
• Sump pump testing with discharge check

Maintenance helps you avoid urgent calls on weekends and holidays. Our local team has served La Porte for more than 40 years, and every plumber is fully licensed and insured. Service is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

When DIY Is Not Enough

Call for help if you notice any of the following:

• Repeated tripped GFCI near a sump or water heater
• Water stains on ceilings or walls after a freeze
• Sewer odors, gurgling, or multiple slow drains
• Frozen or stuck main shutoff valve
• No hot water or fluctuating temperatures

Early intervention prevents drywall damage, mold growth, and pipe bursts. We provide honest options, upfront pricing, and same-day service when possible.

Why Homeowners Choose Summers for Winter Prep

You want a trusted team that shows up on time and does the job right. Here is what you can expect:

• 24/7 emergency response with live phone support
• Licensed, insured, and background-checked technicians
• Price-match promise on comparable services
• Clear estimates and photos or video from inspections
• Plumbing, water quality, and water heater expertise in one visit

We stand behind our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a long-standing local reputation.

Service Coverage Across La Porte County

We regularly serve La Porte, Michigan City, Chesterton, Portage, Valparaiso, South Bend, Westville, Buchanan, Knox, and Bridgman. If you are on a well or have a crawlspace prone to cold, mention it when you call so we bring the right parts. Same-day appointments are often available, and emergency crews are on call around the clock.

Your Winter Plumbing Checklist Summary

• Disconnect and drain hoses, shut off exterior spigots
• Insulate exposed pipes and seal drafts
• Test sump pump, valve, and discharge
• Tune and flush water heater; set to 120°F
• Check for leaks and replace brittle supply lines
• Clean drains and consider a camera inspection if issues persist
• Test water quality and service filters and softeners
• Protect crawlspaces and basements from cold and moisture
• Know what to do if a pipe freezes
• Schedule preventative maintenance before the next cold snap

Putting this list in place will help you avoid flooded floors, emergency bills, and stress during the holidays.

Special Offers for La Porte Homeowners

• Special Offer: Free Service Call with any paid plumbing repair. Must be presented at time of service. Cannot be combined with other discounts. Expires 2025-10-01.
• Water Heater Flush + Plumbing Inspection $59 This Month Only. Benefits include Preventative Maintenance, Improved Energy Efficiency, and Peace of Mind and Safety.
• Drain Cleaning Special Discount On Service $99. This Month Only. Call now to reserve your spot.
• FREE WATER QUALITY TESTING. Detect hidden contaminants, fast and reliable results.
• $500 OFF TANKLESS WATER HEATER INSTALLATION.

Call (219) 349-0509 and mention any offer when booking, or schedule at https://www.summersphc.com/la-porte/.

What Homeowners Are Saying

"I want to share a really positive, near amazing experience on November 6 thanks to Nathan Parrish. ... He determined the exact location of the problem with a minimum amount of impact to surrounding area and will soon be completing the repairs. ... Our thanks to Nathan !"
–Nathan P., La Porte

"Kyle M came to our house today to give us a quote on a furnace. ... He remembered me and when going through the options was EXTREMELY thorough and informative and helpful in explaining the differences and helped us choose the perfect one for our house. I would recommend Summers over and over again. ... Seth was our technician and he was phenomenal. He got right to work and diagnosed the issue. He had to run for parts but was prompt and got back and got it up and going in no time. Great Job Seth"
–Kyle M., La Porte

"Came when expected. Texted first. Was honest about costs and time. Polite. Good at his job. Gave me a few tips. Honestly, one of the best mechanic experiences I've ever had. Kyle did a fantastic job."
–Kyle D., Service Visit

"Very good tech's. Took the time to explain thoroughly what they are doing . Have been to our house 5 plus times doing installs repairs and services always a good experience. The techs are top notch!"
–Pat R., Service Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my pipe is frozen or burst?

Low or no water flow, visible frost on pipes, and odd smells from drains are signs of a freeze. If you see water stains or hear hissing, shut off water and call for help.

Should I drip faucets during a deep freeze?

Yes, on the coldest nights, let cold water drip from faucets fed by exposed or exterior-wall lines. Moving water lowers freeze risk and relieves pressure.

What temperature should I set my water heater in winter?

Set it to 120°F. It balances comfort, safety, and energy savings while reducing scale and stress on the tank.

How often should I flush my water heater?

Once a year for most homes. If you have hard water or sediment buildup, schedule flushing sooner or add water treatment.

Can you winterize my whole home in one visit?

Yes. We can drain and protect exterior lines, insulate exposed pipes, test the sump pump, and service your water heater in a single appointment.

Final Takeaway

A smart winter plumbing checklist is the simplest way to prevent frozen pipes, leaks, and emergency bills in La Porte. Our licensed, insured team has protected local homes for more than 40 years and is on call 24/7. For fast help or a preventative visit, call (219) 349-0509 or schedule at https://www.summersphc.com/la-porte/. Mention our Free Service Call with any paid repair to save.

Ready to Winterize and Save?

Call (219) 349-0509 or book online at https://www.summersphc.com/la-porte/. Ask for the Free Service Call with any paid repair. Same-day service available in La Porte, Michigan City, Valparaiso, and nearby.

About Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling

For over 40 years, Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling has protected La Porte homes with licensed, insured plumbers and 24/7 emergency service. We offer upfront prices, a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and we will match or beat competitors’ prices. Our team is background checked, drug tested, and trained on the latest codes and best practices. One call brings expert plumbing, water quality, and water heater service backed by local care.