FREE GUIDE
Winter Plumbing Guide for Northwest Arkansas
Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter emergencies in Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, and Fayetteville. A few simple steps now can save you thousands later.
Why NWA homes are at risk
Northwest Arkansas winters can swing from mild days to hard freezes overnight. Homes with crawl spaces, exterior hose bibs, and pipes running along outside walls are especially vulnerable. When water freezes, it expands — and the pressure can crack copper, PEX, and PVC alike.
The good news: most frozen-pipe emergencies are preventable with a quick weekend of preparation.
How to winterize your plumbing
Keep heat on, even when you're away
Set your thermostat to at least 55°F when you leave town. Open cabinet doors under sinks so warm air can circulate around pipes along exterior walls.
Let faucets drip overnight
A slow trickle from faucets on exterior walls keeps water moving and relieves pressure if ice starts to form. It's one of the cheapest ways to avoid a burst pipe.
Disconnect hoses and cover spigots
Remove garden hoses, drain them, and shut off the valve to outdoor spigots from inside. Insulate exterior faucets with foam covers to block freezing NWA winds.
Seal crawl space vents and gaps
Cold air rushing into a crawl space can freeze pipes fast. Close foundation vents in winter and seal gaps around pipes, wiring, and dryer vents with caulk or spray foam.
What to do if your pipes freeze
- Turn off the main water valve to stop flooding if a pipe bursts.
- Open the faucet connected to the frozen pipe so water can flow out as it thaws.
- Apply gentle heat with a hair dryer or heating pad — never an open flame.
- Call United Plumbing if you can't locate the freeze, the pipe is cracked, or water won't flow.
When to call a plumber
If you notice low water pressure, frost on exposed pipes, strange sounds when you turn on a faucet, or any sign of a leak, call a licensed plumber right away. United Plumbing is available 24/7 across NWA for frozen pipe emergencies, burst pipe repair, and winterization help.
Don't wait for the first freeze.
United Plumbing can inspect your home, insulate at-risk pipes, and make sure you're ready for winter in Northwest Arkansas.