Freezing temperatures can cause serious damage to plumbing if homes are not properly prepared. A little planning goes a long way in preventing frozen or burst pipes and avoiding costly repairs. Here’s what you should know before a freeze, what to do during cold weather, and how to respond if pipes freeze.
Before a Freeze: Prepare Ahead of Time
Preparation is the most important step you can take.
Insulate exposed pipes
Pipes in garages, crawl spaces, attics, or along exterior walls are especially vulnerable. Pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install and can significantly reduce the risk of freezing.
Disconnect hoses and shut off outdoor water
Remove garden hoses and shut off water to outdoor faucets if possible. Leaving hoses attached can trap water and cause pipes to freeze or burst.
Protect outdoor faucets
Use insulated faucet covers to help protect exposed outdoor spigots from freezing temperatures.
Know where your water shut-off valve is located
If a pipe does burst, shutting off your water quickly can prevent extensive damage. The shut-off is typically located outside near your water meter, usually in the lawn close to the sidewalk or street, under a small ground cover. Take a few minutes to locate it before freezing weather arrives.
During a Freeze: Reduce Your Risk
Keep your home heated
Even if you are away, keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature. Cold indoor temperatures can allow pipes to freeze, especially those along exterior walls.
Open cabinets under sinks
Opening cabinet doors allows warmer air to circulate around pipes, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms on exterior walls.
About dripping faucets
Dripping faucets can help prevent freezing in older homes or homes with plumbing that is poorly insulated or exposed to cold air.
For homes built within the last 20–30 years, plumbing is typically installed with modern insulation standards, and dripping faucets is often not necessary, provided the home is properly heated and pipes are not exposed. If you know certain pipes are vulnerable, allowing a slow drip can add an extra layer of protection. If you do drip, please remember to trickle, don’t stream - it should be a slow steady drip, roughly one drop every few seconds is usually enough. Put a bucket under dripping faucets to use on plants or other uses. Start dripping when temps drop to 32 degrees or below and turn it off once the freeze risk passes.
When in doubt, focus on keeping the home warm and protecting exposed plumbing rather than automatically dripping faucets throughout the house.
If Pipes Freeze: What to Do
Try to thaw pipes safely
If you suspect a pipe has frozen, gently warm it with a hair dryer, starting closest to the faucet and working toward the frozen section. Never use an open flame.
Leave the faucet open
Keeping the faucet open allows water to flow as the ice melts and helps relieve pressure in the pipe.
Call a plumber if needed
If you cannot locate the frozen section or if a pipe bursts, contact a licensed plumber right away.
Stay Prepared
Taking simple steps before freezing weather arrives can protect your home, conserve water, and prevent emergencies. Preparing now helps ensure you stay safe and avoid unnecessary damage during cold weather.