Tips for Keeping Your Pipes from Freezing in the Winter

As the temperatures drop, one of the biggest risks homeowners face is frozen pipes. When water freezes inside your pipes, it expands, potentially causing the pipe to burst. This can lead to significant water damage and costly repairs. Fortunately, with a few proactive steps, you can keep your pipes safe and functional throughout the cold season.

Here are some tips to prevent freezing pipes and protect your home this winter.

Why Do Pipes Freeze?

Pipes freeze when temperatures dip below freezing, especially if they are not properly insulated or located in unheated areas like basements, attics, or garages. Frozen pipes not only block water flow but can also create immense pressure within the pipe, leading to cracks or bursts. Taking preventative measures before the temperature plummets is the best way to avoid these costly problems.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Insulate Pipes: Pipes located in unheated or exposed areas, such as crawl spaces or exterior walls, are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Wrap them in foam pipe insulation or install heat tape for added protection.
Seal Drafts: Cold air can seep through cracks or openings near pipes, increasing their exposure to freezing temperatures. Check for drafts around windows, doors, and vents, and seal them with caulk or weather stripping.
Keep Your Home Warm: Even if you’re planning to be away during the winter, keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F. A consistently warm home helps prevent your pipes from freezing.
Open Cabinet Doors: In areas like the kitchen or bathroom, opening cabinet doors allows warm air to circulate around the pipes under sinks, reducing the risk of freezing.
Let Faucets Drip: Allowing a small trickle of water to flow through vulnerable pipes can prevent freezing by relieving pressure and keeping water moving, even in low temperatures.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: Remove and drain outdoor hoses before storing them for the winter. Leaving hoses connected to outdoor spigots can cause water to back up and freeze inside the pipes.
Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Water Lines: If your home has outdoor water lines, shut off the supply and drain them to prevent any residual water from freezing.

Quick Tips for Easy Reference

Insulate: Wrap exposed pipes in foam or heat tape.
Seal: Close gaps and cracks near pipes to block cold air.
Set Thermostat: Keep it at 55°F or higher, even when you’re not home.
Open Cabinets: Allow warm air to reach pipes under sinks.
Drip Faucets: Keep water flowing during extreme cold.
Outdoor Prep: Disconnect hoses and drain outdoor spigots.

What to Do If Pipes Freeze

If you suspect a pipe is frozen, turn off the water supply to minimize damage if the pipe bursts. Apply gentle heat, such as a heating pad or hairdryer, to thaw the pipe. Avoid using open flames or high heat, as this can cause further damage.

If you encounter a burst pipe or need professional assistance, Staten Plumbing is here to help. Our licensed plumbers in Greenville and Upstate South Carolina provide fast, reliable service to keep your home safe and secure during the winter months.

Call us today at (864) 657-4427 to learn more.