Keeping the Water Flowing During Kenai’s Deep Freeze ❄️

When winter really settles in on the Kenai Peninsula, we all know the routine—extra wood on the fire, trucks plugged in, and a lot more layers before heading outside. But one thing that can quickly turn a cozy winter day into a stressful one is frozen pipes. Whether you own your home or you’re renting, a little prevention goes a long way when temperatures dip well below zero.

Here are a few simple things I always recommend this time of year:

1. Let your faucets drip slightly
It may seem counterintuitive, but allowing a small trickle of water to run—especially from faucets on exterior walls—helps keep water moving and reduces the chance of freezing.

2. Open cabinet doors under sinks
If you have plumbing along outside walls, open the cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks. This allows warm air from the house to circulate around the pipes.

3. Keep the thermostat consistent
Even if you’re heading out for the day or the weekend, try not to lower your heat too much. Keeping your home at a steady temperature helps protect the plumbing.

4. Check crawl spaces and utility rooms
Here on the peninsula, many homes have crawl spaces or utility areas where pipes are more exposed. Make sure access doors are closed tightly and insulation is in good shape.

5. Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses
If you haven’t already, remove hoses and drain outdoor faucets. Water left in the line can freeze and cause damage inside the pipe.

6. Know the warning signs
Reduced water pressure, strange smells from the faucet, or frost on visible pipes can be early indicators that something is starting to freeze.

Living in Alaska teaches us to be prepared, and a few small steps can save a lot of headaches later. Our homes work hard for us during these long winters, and a little extra attention during cold snaps helps keep everything running smoothly.

And as always, if you ever have questions about homes here on the Kenai—whether you’re buying, selling, or just taking care of the one you have—I’m always happy to help.

Stay warm out there!