How to Prepare Water Pipes for a Freeze and Prevent Damage

Freezing temperatures can be devastating to your home's water pipes. Exposed pipes in unheated areas like the garage, basement, or crawlspace are particularly vulnerable to freezing.

The ideal temperature for preventing pipes from freezing is above 55°F (13°C).

Disconnecting and draining outdoor hoses can help prevent water from seeping into pipes and freezing.

Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer's or installer's directions. This is a crucial step to prevent damage to your outdoor water sources.

Before the cold weather hits, remove, drain, and carefully store hoses used outdoors. This will help prevent freezing in outdoor hose bibs and water supply lines.

Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs and open the outside hose taps to allow water to drain. This will help prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

Check around your home for areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas, such as the basement, crawl space, attic, garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.

Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes, such as a "pipe sleeve" or "heat tape", on exposed water pipes. Many products are available at a building supplies retailer.

Determine where the water shut-off valve is in your house and how to use it in case pipes freeze and break. This will help you quickly turn off the water supply if needed.

Here's a checklist to help you prepare your pipes for freezing:

If you suspect a frozen pipe, look for signs like no water or only a trickle when you turn on a faucet, or frost on exposed pipes.

Be aware of strange odors coming from drains or faucets, which could be due to trapped waste and gases. If you notice any of these signs, take immediate action.

Open the faucet to allow water to flow as the pipe thaws, gradually releasing pressure. This will help prevent further damage.

Apply heat to the frozen section using a hair dryer, heating pad, or space heater. Never use an open flame to thaw pipes, as this could cause more damage or even start a fire.

If you can't locate or access the frozen pipe, or if your efforts to thaw it are unsuccessful, call a licensed plumber. They have specialized equipment that can safely thaw frozen pipes without causing damage.

Relocate exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing, especially if your home is being remodeled. A professional can help you relocate pipes to safer areas.

Maintaining consistent indoor temperature is key to preventing pipes from freezing. Set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you're away.

Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes. This can help prevent freezing by exposing pipes to warmer air.

Insulating pipes in unheated areas or along exterior walls can greatly reduce the risk of unexpected pipe bursts. You can use foam pipe insulation sleeves, which are inexpensive and easy to install.

Consider upgrading to PEX piping, which is more freeze-resistant than copper and offers increased flexibility. This investment can pay off over the long term.

Here are some specific steps you can take to protect outdoor plumbing fixtures:

Allowing a trickle of water to run through your faucets can help prevent pipes from freezing, especially in areas with extreme cold. This simple trick can save you from costly repairs.

Insulating pipes, especially those in the attic and crawl space, can also prevent freezing. You can use pipe insulation or wrap pipes in heat tape or heat cables with a thermostat control. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation.

Sealing cracks and openings around pipes can also prevent cold air from reaching them. Use expanding foam or caulk to seal cracks in walls or floors near pipes, and check areas where utility services enter the home. Don't forget to seal spaces around outdoor faucets and cable TV wire entry points.

Here's a quick checklist to help you prepare your pipes for a freeze:

As you start thinking about preventing freezing issues, it's essential to consider future protection measures. Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing, especially if you're planning a home remodel. This can be done by hiring a professional to move the pipes to a safer location.

Adding insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces can also help maintain higher temperatures and prevent pipes from freezing. This simple step can make a big difference in keeping your home warm and safe.

For more information about frozen pipes, contact a licensed plumber or building professional. They can provide you with expert advice and help you prepare your home for the cold weather.

Allowing a trickle of water to run through your faucets can help prevent pipes from freezing, especially when you know freezing temperatures are on the way. This can be done by keeping a faucet on an exterior wall or in an unheated area turned on to allow a slow, steady drip.

Keeping your home warm, both day and night, will also help prevent pipes from freezing. This may mean keeping your thermostat at a higher temperature, even when you're not home. A burst pipe could be even more expensive than a higher heating bill.

Pipes near exterior areas, like those in your garage or attic, are more likely to freeze. Make sure your garage door is closed and add insulation to these areas. You can also wrap pipes in heat tape or heat cables with a thermostat control for extra protection.

Sealing cracks and openings around pipes is crucial in maintaining your home's overall insulation. Use expanding foam or caulk to seal cracks in walls or floors near pipes, preventing drafts that can lower temperatures around them.

Here are some steps you can take to prevent frozen pipes:

Pipes can freeze when exposed to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended period.

Water expands as it freezes, putting pressure on the pipe and potentially causing cracks.

This can lead to bursting pipes and subsequent flooding.

As I recall, I once knew someone whose pipes burst during a particularly cold winter, causing a lot of damage.

The expansion of water when it freezes is the main culprit behind frozen pipes.

Freezing temperatures can cause this expansion, so it's essential to take precautions during cold snaps.

Upgrading your plumbing materials can make a big difference in preventing freezing issues. Installing PEX piping is a great option, as it's more freeze-resistant than copper and offers increased flexibility.

Relocating pipes from vulnerable areas can also help lessen exposure to cold air. This can be especially beneficial for pipes that are exposed to exterior walls or unheated areas.

Adding heat tape or heat cables to high-risk pipes can maintain warmth during extreme cold. This can be a lifesaver during particularly harsh winters.

Here are some key options to consider when upgrading your plumbing materials: