Preventing Winter Plumbing Freezes & Thaws

While Roswell, New Mexico, is known for its dry desert climate, winter weather can still pose serious challenges for homeowners—especially when it comes to plumbing. Rapid temperature swings, cold overnight lows, and occasional hard freezes create unique risks that differ from those in colder, more consistent climates.

Understanding how to protect your plumbing system is essential for preventing costly damage and disruptions.

Insulating Pipes Against Cold Nights

One of the most effective strategies for desert-climate homes is proper pipe insulation. Even if daytime temperatures are mild, exposed pipes in garages, crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls are vulnerable during cold nights. Pipe insulation sleeves or wraps are inexpensive and help maintain consistent temperatures inside the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.

Outdoor spigots and irrigation lines should also be insulated or shut off completely during winter. Disconnecting hoses and installing insulated faucet covers can prevent pressure buildup that leads to cracks or bursts.

Managing Freeze–Thaw Cycles

Unlike colder regions where temperatures stay below freezing for extended periods, Roswell often experiences freeze–thaw cycles. Water inside pipes may freeze overnight and thaw during the day, causing repeated expansion and contraction. Over time, this weakens pipes and joints, increasing the likelihood of leaks.

To reduce stress on your plumbing, allow faucets to drip slightly during particularly cold nights. Moving water is less likely to freeze. Keeping cabinet doors open under sinks along exterior walls also allows warmer air to circulate around pipes, helping maintain safer temperatures.

Checking for Slab Leaks

Many homes in Roswell are built on concrete slabs, which can make plumbing leaks difficult to detect. Slab leaks are particularly concerning in winter because temperature changes can exacerbate small cracks in pipes beneath the foundation.

Warning signs of slab leaks include unexplained increases in water bills, warm or damp spots on floors, the sound of running water when no fixtures are in use, or cracks in flooring or walls. Addressing these signs early is critical, as slab leaks can lead to foundation damage, mold growth, and significant water loss.

Monitoring Water Pressure and Usage

Winter is a good time to check your home’s water pressure. Excessively high pressure puts added strain on pipes, especially during freeze–thaw conditions. Installing or testing a pressure-reducing valve can help protect your plumbing system year-round.

Homeowners should also periodically check their water meter for signs of hidden leaks. Turning off all water fixtures and observing the meter can help identify problems before they escalate.

The Importance of a Professional Plumber

While proactive homeowner steps are valuable, desert-climate plumbing issues often require professional expertise. A licensed plumber understands the specific challenges faced by homeowners in Roswell and can identify vulnerabilities that are easy to overlook.

Our plumbers use specialized tools to detect hidden leaks, inspect slab plumbing, and recommend upgrades that improve durability and efficiency. Having a trusted plumber on hand ensures that when winter weather strikes—or when subtle problems emerge—you have expert support ready to protect your home.

With proper preparation and professional guidance, Roswell homeowners can navigate winter conditions confidently and keep their plumbing systems safe, efficient, and reliable all season long. Schedule an appointment with Fulkerson Plumbing & Air Conditioning.