Winter Plumbing Tips for Maryland Homeowners: Prevent Frozen Pipes and Well Damage
July 5, 2026 · 6 min read · By Deep Dive Plumbing Maryland
Maryland winters are unpredictable — mild stretches followed by sudden hard freezes. For homeowners with well water systems, a single night below 15°F can freeze pipes and damage pump equipment. Here are the essential steps to protect your plumbing before winter arrives.
Keep your thermostat at 55°F minimum
Even when away or on vacation. The cost of heating is far less than the cost of a burst pipe.
Insulate pipes in unheated spaces
Crawlspaces, garages, pump houses, and exterior walls are the highest-risk areas. Foam pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install.
Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses
Water left in hoses can freeze and back up into the hose bib, causing it to crack. Disconnect all hoses before the first freeze.
Keep your well pump house heated
The above-ground components of your well system (pressure tank, pressure switch, pipes) must be kept above 40°F. A small electric heater with a thermostat is the standard solution.
Know where your main water shutoff is
If a pipe bursts, you need to shut off the water immediately. Make sure every adult in the household knows where the shutoff is and how to operate it.
Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls
During extreme cold snaps, opening cabinet doors allows warm air to circulate around pipes on exterior walls.
Let faucets drip during extreme cold
When temperatures drop below 15°F, let faucets on exterior walls drip slightly. Moving water is harder to freeze.
Check your sump pump before winter storms
Winter rain and snowmelt can overwhelm a sump pump. Test it before storm season and consider a battery backup.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what temperature do pipes freeze in Maryland?
Pipes can begin to freeze when outdoor temperatures drop below 20°F, but the risk increases significantly below 15°F. Pipes in unheated spaces (crawlspaces, garages, exterior walls) are at risk even when indoor temperatures are comfortable. Maryland typically experiences several nights per winter below these thresholds.
What should I do if I leave my Maryland home for the winter?
If you are leaving for an extended period: keep the heat at 55°F minimum, shut off the main water supply and drain the pipes, have someone check the property after each major cold event, and make sure your well pump house is heated. For vacant homes, consider having a plumber winterize the system by blowing out the pipes with compressed air.
How do I protect my well pump from freezing?
The underground portion of your well is below the frost line and is not at risk. The above-ground components — pressure tank, pressure switch, and pipes in the pump house — need protection. Keep the pump house heated to at least 40°F with a thermostatically controlled electric heater. Insulate the pump house walls and door. Check the heater before each winter season.
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