How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Water expands when it freezes, creating enormous pressure inside pipes—up to 2,000 PSI. This pressure bursts pipes, causing extensive water damage when they thaw. Pipes most at risk: exterior walls, unheated areas (garages, crawl spaces, attics), and pipes near windows or poorly insulated areas. Even brief exposure to temperatures below 20°F can freeze vulnerable pipes.

Pipe insulation is inexpensive and effective. Use foam pipe sleeves or fiberglass wrap on all exposed pipes in unheated areas. Pay special attention to pipes in exterior walls, near exterior doors, and in the attic. Heat tape or heat cables provide active warming for high-risk pipes. Seal air leaks near pipes—cold drafts accelerate freezing.

Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets. Shut off and drain irrigation systems. Insulate outdoor faucet covers (foam covers cost a few dollars). Know your main water shut-off location in case of emergency. Check insulation in attics, crawl spaces, and basements. Service your heating system to ensure reliable operation during cold snaps.

Keep garage doors closed if pipes are present. Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to allow warm air circulation. Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold—moving water is less likely to freeze. Keep thermostats at 55°F or higher, even when away. If leaving for extended periods in winter, consider draining the plumbing system or having someone check daily.

No water or reduced flow from faucets is the most obvious sign. Frost visible on exposed pipes indicates freezing. Strange smells from drains may occur as ice blocks the venting. Bulging or cracked pipes are emergency situations—the pipe has likely already burst and will flood when thawed.

Turn off water at the main shut-off valve immediately. Open faucets to relieve pressure. Never use open flames to thaw pipes—fire risk is serious. Use a hair dryer, heat lamp, or portable heater to gently thaw frozen sections. Start thawing at the faucet and work toward the frozen area. Call a plumber if you can't locate the frozen section, suspect the pipe has burst, or pipes are inaccessible.