December is one of the busiest travel months in Western Montana, and it’s also one of the coldest. When no one is home to notice early warning signs, small issues can turn into major problems—frozen pipes, furnace shutdowns, water leaks, and other damage that worsens by the hour. Before you pack your bags, a few quick checks can keep your home safe and prevent a stressful return.
Why winter travel puts homes at higher risk
Cold weather affects every part of your plumbing and heating system. Pipes cool down faster, furnaces work harder, and any weak spot—like a slow leak or a sticking valve—can worsen when the temperature drops. When a house sits empty, no one hears the furnace turning on and off more often than usual, sees moisture collecting under a sink, or realizes a pipe froze overnight.
A little preparation goes a long way in preventing expensive damage.
Set your thermostat safely before you leave
It might seem tempting to lower the thermostat to save energy, but doing so creates more risk than benefit. If the indoor temperature drops too much, pipes inside walls can freeze even if the rest of your home feels warm when you return.
Keep your thermostat set no lower than 55–60 degrees. This provides your heating system with sufficient buffer to handle freezing nights. If your furnace hasn’t been inspected in a while, now is a good time to ensure it’s ready for the steady winter weather ahead.
Check for small plumbing problems before they get bigger
A dripping faucet or slow drain may not seem urgent when you’re busy getting ready for a trip. But in winter, those minor issues can escalate quickly—especially if temperatures drop or your plumbing lines are already worn.
Before leaving, walk through your home and look under sinks, behind toilets, and around your water heater for any signs of moisture. If you notice anything unusual, even a musty smell or damp spot, it’s wise to have it checked. Hidden leaks can worsen while you’re gone, increasing the risk of water damage or mold.
If you need help with anything from leaks to slow drains, a professional plumbing team can give you peace of mind before you travel.
Protect exposed pipes and cold areas of your home
Certain parts of the house are more vulnerable to freezing: garages, crawl spaces, basements, and rooms against exterior walls. If these spaces stay especially cold, insulated pipe sleeves or foam covers can make a big difference.
For extra protection, open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate. This is especially helpful for kitchen sinks on exterior walls, which freeze faster than people expect.
Make sure your furnace is ready for steady operation
Your furnace doesn’t get a break just because you’re out of town. In fact, it may run more frequently during winter storms or sub-zero nights. The last thing you want is to come home to a furnace that shut down days ago.
Before traveling, listen for anything unusual—rattling, short cycling, or weak airflow. If you haven’t had a recent tune-up, a professional inspection can catch small issues early. For AC systems that share ductwork or controls, confirm those components are functioning properly as well. If you’re unsure, a professional team that offers heating and cooling services can help ensure everything is in good shape.
Consider shutting off the main water supply if you’ll be gone for a while
If you’re traveling for more than a few days, turning off your home’s main water supply valve is one of the simplest ways to prevent major water damage. It won’t protect you from frozen pipes in every situation, but it will stop a leak from running unchecked for days.
After shutting the valve, turn on a faucet to release pressure. This reduces the strain on your plumbing while you’re gone.
Ask someone to check in if you’re away for more than a week
Even with good preparation, Montana winters can be unpredictable. Having a neighbor, friend, or house-sitter stop by every few days can make a big difference. A quick walk-through is often all it takes to spot an issue early.
Something as small as hearing the furnace turn on or noticing a cool spot in the home can prevent a serious problem.
Travel confidently by preparing your home before you lock the door
Taking a few minutes to check your plumbing and heating systems helps protect your home from the unique winter challenges in Western Montana. Whether you’re away for the weekend or gone for the holidays, these steps offer peace of mind and help you avoid unpleasant surprises when you return.
If you want a professional to look over your furnace, water heater, or plumbing before you leave town, you can schedule service or call (406) 481-3548.