Freezing temperatures are headed your way, and we wanted to reach out. We know freeze prep can feel like one more thing on your list — but a few simple steps now can prevent thousands of dollars in damage and a whole lot of stress. Here's what you need to know.
Protecting Your Indoor Plumbing
Your thermostat is your first line of defense. We recommend keeping it at 65°F or higher, day and night — this keeps your pipes warm, and taking reasonable care to maintain heat in your home is also required by your homeowner's policy.
While you're inside:
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Let faucets drip slowly — moving water resists freezing
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Open cabinet doors under sinks — lets warm air reach the pipes
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Find your main water shutoff valve now — you'll need to act fast if a pipe bursts. It's typically located near your water heater or outside at the meter box, and some require a wrench. Better to find it today than at 2 AM with water spraying everywhere.
Protecting Outdoor Plumbing
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Disconnect and drain garden hoses — water trapped inside can freeze back into your pipes
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Shut off outdoor faucets at the interior valve if possible, then open the outdoor tap to drain. If there's no interior shutoff and no covers available, leave them on a slow drip — same principle as inside
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Keep garage doors closed — especially if water lines run through them
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Cover exterior plumbing — well pumps, water filtration systems, and exposed pipes. Cover well pumps loosely with insulation or blankets
Pool Equipment & Solar Systems
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Run your pool pump continuously during the freeze — moving water won't freeze
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Solar heating systems: keep water circulating, or drain them completely if you know how
Planning to Be Away?
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Leave your heat at 65°F minimum — never turn it completely off
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Ask a trusted neighbor to check your home daily
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For extended absences, consider having a plumber winterize your system
What to Know About Your Insurance
Sudden water damage from burst pipes when you've maintained heat and taken reasonable precautions is a covered cause of a loss under your Kin policy. We're reaching out now because we'd much rather help you prevent damage than process a claim — that's what we're here for. All coverage is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, and limits of your individual policy.
Not sure what you're covered for? Check your Declaration page or call us at 855-216-7674.
If something does happen, file a claim at 866-204-2219 or kin.com/claims.
We'll Be Monitoring the Weather
We'll be keeping an eye on conditions in affected areas. If you have questions or need help, you won't have to hunt for us.
💬 Questions? Call us at 855-216-7674
Stay safe, Your Kin Team