Every fall, we get a flood of calls about winterizing lawn sprinkler systems — and rightfully so. But one question we don’t hear quite as often (even though we should) is this:
“Does my pier, pool house, or outdoor kitchen need to be winterized too?”
Short answer? Absolutely.
Just like your sprinkler lines, anything outdoors that carries water is vulnerable once the temperatures drop. That includes:
- Water lines running to a pier on the water
- Outdoor kitchens with sinks, bar taps, or water-fed appliances
- Pool houses with showers, hose bibs, or mini kitchens
- Detached garages or workshops with plumbing
Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what needs to be winterized, why it matters, and how TLC can help you handle it — stress-free.
Why You Can’t Skip Winterizing Piers and Outdoor Plumbing
Water expands when it freezes. So even the smallest amount of standing water left in a line can cause big-time problems:
- Cracked pipes (above and below ground)
- Busted faucets or fixtures
- Damaged filters, valves, and regulators
- Expensive spring repairs
And here’s the thing — most people forget about these systems until it’s too late. Your lawn sprinkler might be top of mind, but your outdoor sink or pier shower is just as vulnerable.
“Bob, I only use it in the summer!” That’s exactly why you need to winterize it — because it’ll sit untouched all winter long.
When Should You Winterize Outdoor Plumbing?
We recommend scheduling your winterization between mid-October and early November, depending on where you live in Maryland. Once nighttime temps dip into the 30s, you’re already flirting with trouble.
If your pier is down by the water — like the Chesapeake Bay or one of the rivers — it can stay a bit warmer later in the season. But don’t let that lull you into waiting too long.
It’s better to be a week early than a day late.
What TLC Can Winterize for You
Our team is trained to handle more than just sprinkler systems. Here’s a list of common outdoor elements we can winterize:
- Water lines running down to piers and docks
- Outdoor kitchen sinks and plumbing
- Outdoor bars with ice makers or drink taps
- Pool house showers, bathrooms, and laundry sinks
- Outdoor spigots and hose bibs
- Detached garages or studios with water access
We use high-powered compressors and proper techniques to blow out water, shut off and drain fixtures, and protect all vulnerable components.
Can’t I Just Shut Off the Water Myself?
You can — but here’s the kicker:
- Most homeowners forget to open every valve
- Air pockets can trap water in lines
- Fixtures and filters don’t always drain fully
- Compressors (if used wrong) can damage pipes
We’ve seen it too many times: someone thinks they got it all… until spring rolls around and a $500 backflow preventer needs replacing.
That’s why our winterizations are thorough. We’ve got a checklist. We know the systems. And we treat your property like it’s our own.
What If I Have a Complex Setup?
No problem. In fact, the more complex your outdoor plumbing is, the more you need a pro.
Multiple zones? No issue. Split water lines for a pool house and pier? We’ve seen it. Bar sinks, outdoor showers, rinse stations? That’s our bread and butter.
TLC’s been doing this for decades. We know how to approach each system based on how it was built and how you use it.
When to Schedule with TLC
If you’re already having us winterize your lawn sprinkler system — this is the perfect time to add on your pier, kitchen, or pool house.
We’ll coordinate it all during the same visit, saving you: – Time – Multiple appointments – Emergency service calls when something breaks mid-winter
Just let us know what you’ve got, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Final Thoughts from Bob
Your outdoor spaces aren’t just for summer fun. They’re investments — and winter can be brutal on them if you’re not ready.
If you’ve got a pier, pool house, or outdoor kitchen that’s got water running through it, don’t roll the dice. Let us help you get it winterized the right way.
You’ve trusted us with your sprinkler system. Let us take care of the rest of your property too.
Give TLC a call and ask about adding pier or outdoor plumbing winterization to your service. We’ll get it scheduled, get it done right, and help you sleep a little easier this winter.
Because around here, we believe preparation is protection — and your property deserves both.
Let’s get it done right.