How to Prepare Your Home for a Hard Freeze, or Extreme Cold Weather Watch in New Jersey.

When a hard freeze or extreme cold watch is forecast for the weekend in New Jersey, the risk of damage to your plumbing and heating systems rises sharply. Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, heating systems to fail, and costly repairs that disrupt your comfort and safety. Taking proactive steps now can protect your home and save you money. Here are practical tips to prepare your plumbing and heating systems for the cold weather ahead.

Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

Pipes are vulnerable during hard freezes, especially those located in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces. Frozen pipes can burst and cause significant water damage.

• Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves or heat tape. Focus on pipes near exterior walls or in unheated spaces.

• Seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home to keep cold air out.

• Let faucets drip slowly during the coldest hours. Moving water is less likely to freeze.

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing.

• Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets to prevent freezing and bursting.

  
  

Maintain Your Heating System

Your heating system will work harder during a hard freeze, so ensure it is in good condition to avoid breakdowns.

• Change furnace filters before the cold hits to improve airflow and efficiency.

• Schedule a professional inspection if you haven’t had one this season. A technician can check for issues that might cause failure during extreme cold.

• Keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature, even when you are away. We usually recommend at least 65 degrees in New Jersey. Avoid turning the heat off completely to prevent pipes from freezing.

• Know where your emergency shut-off valves are for gas & oil heating systems as well as your main water line, in case you need to turn them off quickly.

  
  

Additional Tips for Winter Preparedness

• Install a programmable thermostat to maintain steady temperatures and reduce energy costs.

• Check your water heater for leaks or corrosion and drain sediment if necessary to improve efficiency.

• Have emergency supplies ready, such as space heaters, blankets, and flashlights, in case of power outages.

• Consider installing a backup generator if your area is prone to outages during winter storms.

  
  

What to Do If Pipes Freeze

If you suspect a pipe has frozen, act quickly to prevent bursting:

• Turn off the main water supply to reduce pressure on the pipe.

• Apply gentle heat to the frozen section using a hairdryer or heating pad. Never use an open flame.

• Call a licensed plumber if you cannot thaw the pipe safely or if you notice leaks to prevent further damage.

  
  

Taking these steps before the weekend’s hard freeze can protect your home’s plumbing and heating systems from damage. Preparing now means less stress and fewer costly repairs later.

Should an emergency arise during this cold snap such as no heat, please give us a call.

And if you would like information on our Annual Maintenance Plans Crossroads is happy to give you a personalized quote for your specific needs asap.

Maintenance Plans are the best way to ensure your system is regularly checked and prepared for seasonal changes, helping to get in front of any potential issues and prevent larger ones from happening when possible. 201.384.3063.