Reminder to Turn This Off in Michigan Before Winter Really Starts

Michigan winters have the potential to be pretty brutal.

Winters in Michigan

To put it into context, the coldest temperature on record for Michigan is -51 degrees. And that's not even taking into account any potential wind chill going on.

Read Related: 7 Things to Do For Your Home Before Winter in Michigan

With temperatures that cold (not to mention potential snow and ice), there are certain things you'll want to get done before winter really sets in.

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Homeowners, I'm talking to you! Freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can cause some serious costly damage to your home.

Read Related: The Most Dangerous Appliance in Michigan Homes This Winter

One of the things that can cause the most serious and costly damage is plumbing.

What Should I Do With My Plumbing in the Winter?

Regardless of whether you're a first-time home owner or this isn't your first rodeo, be sure to check on all your plumbing. When the temps drop below freezing, that water in your pipes can become frozen too.

That's why home owners are encouraged to let faucets drip and open doors to cupboards that get particularly cold, like ones on an exterior wall.

Check Your Faucets in Winter

The faucets and plumbing on the inside are important, but don't forget about the faucets on the outside.

The best thing you can do for your outside faucets is to completely turn them off for the season. Cut the water flowing to the faucet and leave the outside spigot just a tiny bit open. This will help make sure water won't freeze and expand in the pipe. And don't forget to take off any hoses and attachments and bring those inside.

However, if you do need to use your hose throughout the winter, you're going to follow the "indoor faucet" advice; which is to let the faucet drip. You might get a giant icicle hanging from the end, but this will relieve any pressure from freezing water.

Happy winter home maintenance, Michigan!