Winter can be harsh on your home’s plumbing system, especially if you live in an area where freezing temperatures are expected. Frozen pipes are one of the most severe issues that can occur during winter. They don't just inconvenience you by cutting off your water supply; they can also lead to costly repairs, extensive water damage, and structural damage to your property.
By taking a proactive approach to preventing frozen pipes, you can avoid these stressful and expensive problems. This guide will walk you through why pipes freeze, how to prevent it, and what steps to take if you encounter frozen pipes. We’ll also cover long-term strategies that can give your plumbing system year-round protection.
By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to keep your home safe from the risks associated with frozen pipes, all while maintaining a comfortable and functional living environment throughout the winter months.
What Causes Pipes To Freeze?
Pipes freeze when the temperature around them drops below 32°F (0°C), and the water inside the pipes begins to freeze. However, not every pipe in your home is equally vulnerable to freezing. Pipes located in unheated spaces, such as basements, attics, garages, or exterior walls, are more likely to freeze because they are more exposed to cold air.
When water freezes, it expands by about 9% in volume. This expansion creates tremendous pressure on the walls of pipes, which can eventually cause them to crack or burst. Burst pipes can lead to significant flooding, and the cost of repairing the damage can quickly add up.
Understanding the science behind freezing pipes helps you realize how critical it is to insulate and prepare your plumbing system for the winter. Below, we’ll cover specific strategies that will help you avoid this common winter plumbing disaster.
Why Frozen Pipes Are So Problematic for Homeowners
Frozen pipes don’t just stop your water supply—they can cause catastrophic damage to your home. Here’s how:
- Pressure Build-Up: As water freezes and expands inside the pipes, the pressure builds up to the point where the pipe material can’t contain it anymore. The pipe bursts, leading to leaks and flooding.
- Water Damage: Once a pipe bursts, the water that escapes can flood your home. This can damage walls, flooring, furniture, and even the foundation of your house. Water damage can also lead to mold growth, which is harmful to both your home and your health.
- Expensive Repairs: Not only will you need to repair the burst pipe, but you’ll also have to address any water damage to your home. The cost of repairing water damage can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the extent of the damage.
How Cold Does It Have to Be for Pipes to Freeze?
Pipes typically begin to freeze when the outside temperature drops to 20°F (-6°C) or lower. However, several factors influence whether or not a pipe will freeze, such as:
- Pipe Material: Some materials are more prone to freezing than others. For example, copper pipes freeze faster than PEX or CPVC pipes. If your home has older pipes made from materials more susceptible to freezing, you should take extra precautions.
- Location of Pipes: Pipes located in unheated areas like crawl spaces, basements, attics, and garages are at higher risk of freezing. These areas tend to be exposed to cold air and don’t receive the warmth generated by your home’s heating system.
- Insulation: Properly insulated pipes are much less likely to freeze. Without insulation, the cold air can reach the water inside the pipes much faster, leading to freezing.
Five Factors That Put Your Home at Risk for Frozen Pipes
Understanding your home’s unique vulnerabilities is the first step to protecting it against frozen pipes. Some homes are more at risk than others, and knowing why will help you implement the best prevention strategies.
1. The Age of the Home
Older homes often have outdated plumbing systems and may need more insulation. Homes built before modern plumbing standards may have pipes made from materials more prone to freezing, such as galvanized steel or cast iron.
Additionally, older homes may have yet to be constructed with cold winters in mind, meaning that pipes in uninsulated or poorly insulated areas are more likely to freeze.
2. Where a Home is Located
Homes in colder climates, particularly those in the northern United States or in higher elevations, face more extreme winter weather conditions, making frozen pipes a more common issue.
However, homes in warmer regions can also experience frozen pipes during unexpected cold spells, in areas where homes are not built to withstand freezing temperatures, a sudden drop in temperature can catch homeowners off guard, leading to frozen pipes.
3. Pipe Placement in the Home
Homes with exposed or exterior pipes are more vulnerable to freezing. Pipes that run along exterior walls, in unheated areas like attics and basements, or outside the home (such as garden faucets) are at higher risk of freezing. In contrast, interior pipes that are close to the home’s heating system are less likely to freeze.
4. Insufficient Insulation Behind the Walls
If your home lacks adequate insulation, the cold air can penetrate through walls, ceilings, and floors, exposing your pipes to freezing temperatures. Pipes in crawl spaces, garages, and uninsulated attics are at the highest risk.
5. Poor Sealing of Doors and Windows
Even if your pipes are located indoors, they may still be at risk of freezing if your home has drafts or air leaks. Cold air can seep through poorly sealed doors and windows, lowering the temperature around pipes. This is why sealing gaps and cracks around your home is a crucial part of preventing frozen pipes.
The Most Effective Methods for Preventing Frozen Pipes
Preventing frozen pipes requires a combination of short-term precautions and long-term strategies. While the steps may seem simple, taking the time to properly winterize your plumbing can save you from dealing with expensive repairs and water damage.
1. Be Sure to Insulate Your Pipes
The most effective way to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate them properly. Insulation helps retain the warmth of the water inside the pipe and prevents cold air from coming into contact with the pipe. Different materials can be used for pipe insulation, and the choice depends on the location and accessibility of the pipes.
- Foam Pipe Insulation: Foam pipe insulation is one of the most affordable and effective ways to insulate pipes in unheated areas such as attics, crawl spaces, and garages. These foam tubes are split down the middle so that you can easily fit them around your pipes. They come in various sizes, so make sure to measure the diameter of your pipes before purchasing.
- Heating Cables: Heating cables or heat tape can be used to wrap around pipes that are at a high risk of freezing. These cables provide a small amount of controlled heat that prevents water from freezing inside the pipe. There are two types of heating cables: self-regulating and manual. Self-regulating cables automatically adjust the heat output based on the surrounding temperature, while manual wires need to be turned on and off.
- Pipe Wrap: For a more temporary solution, pipe wrap can be used to insulate pipes that are exposed to cold air. This wrap can be made of fiberglass, foam, or rubber and provides an additional layer of protection.
- Insulate Unheated Spaces: In addition to insulating your pipes, it’s a good idea to insulate the unheated spaces in your home where these pipes are located. Adding insulation to your attic, crawl space, or garage will help keep these areas warmer and reduce the risk of frozen pipes.
2. Seal Gaps and Hidden Cracks Throughout Your Home
Cold air can enter your home through small gaps and cracks in the walls, windows, and doors. These drafts can lower the temperature around your pipes, increasing the risk of freezing. By sealing these gaps, you can prevent cold air from reaching your pipes.
- Check Windows and Doors: Inspect the seals around windows and doors, especially in rooms with plumbing. Replace any worn weather stripping or apply caulk to seal any cracks or gaps.
- Seal Wall Penetrations: Pipes often pass through walls, and the gaps around these pipes can let cold air into your home. Use spray foam or caulk to seal these gaps and keep cold air out.
- Close Garage Doors: If your home has plumbing in the garage, keep the garage doors closed during cold weather to prevent cold air from entering.
3. Keep Water Moving
Water that remains stagnant in pipes is more likely to freeze than water that is flowing. During periods of freezing weather, it’s a good idea to keep your faucets slightly open to allow a small amount of water to flow through the pipes.
- Drip Faucets: During freezing weather, leave your faucets open slightly to allow a small trickle of water to flow through the pipes. This keeps the water moving and prevents it from freezing. Pay special attention to faucets connected to pipes located along exterior walls or in unheated areas.
- Flush Toilets Regularly: If you're concerned about pipes freezing in the bathrooms, flush the toilets regularly to keep the water moving through the pipes.
- Run Appliances: Use appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines frequently during periods of extreme cold to keep water flowing through the plumbing system.
4. Maintain a Consistent Indoor Temperature in Your Home
Keeping your home warm is essential to preventing frozen pipes, especially when temperatures outside drop below freezing. Maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your home ensures that the pipes in unheated or poorly insulated areas stay warm enough to prevent freezing.
- Set Your Thermostat: Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F (12.7°C) during the winter months, even when you’re not home. This ensures that the temperature inside your home remains warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing.
- Open Cabinet Doors: In areas where pipes run through cabinets, such as under kitchen and bathroom sinks, open the cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
- Use Space Heaters: For areas of your home that are more vulnerable to freezing, such as basements, attics, or garages, consider using space heaters to keep the temperature warm enough to prevent frozen pipes. Be sure to follow all safety precautions when using space heaters.
5. Winterize Outdoor Plumbing Systems to Protect Them
Outdoor plumbing systems are more vulnerable to freezing because they are directly exposed to the elements. Properly winterizing these systems will help prevent frozen pipes and protect your outdoor faucets, hoses, and sprinkler systems.
- Disconnect and Drain Hoses: Disconnect and drain all garden hoses before the first freeze. Any water left in the hoses can freeze and cause the hose or outdoor faucet to crack.
- Shut Off Outdoor Faucets: Turn off the water supply to any outdoor faucets using the shut-off valve inside your home. After shutting off the water supply, open the faucet to drain any remaining water. This will prevent any water left in the pipes from freezing.
- Winterize Sprinkler Systems: If you have a lawn irrigation or sprinkler system, be sure to winterize it before freezing temperatures set in. Drain the system or blow it out with compressed air to prevent water from freezing in the pipes.
6. Keep an Eye on the Weather
Staying aware of the weather forecast is an essential part of preventing frozen pipes. If you know that freezing temperatures are on the way, you can take additional precautions to protect your home’s plumbing system.
- Pay Attention to Weather Alerts: Stay informed about impending cold fronts, and be prepared to take action if freezing temperatures are forecasted.
- Prepare for Cold Spells: If freezing weather is expected, take extra steps to protect your pipes, such as dripping faucets, adding additional insulation, or setting up space heaters in unheated areas.
What To Do If Your Pipes Freeze This Winter
Even if you take all the proper precautions, extreme weather can still cause pipes to freeze. It’s essential to know the signs of frozen pipes and how to thaw them safely to avoid a burst pipe.
1. A Few Signs That Your Pipes Have Frozen
- No Water: If you turn on a faucet and no water comes out, this is a clear sign that the pipe leading to the faucet is frozen.
- Frost on Pipes: Visible frost on exposed pipes is a sign that the water inside the pipe has frozen.
- Bulging Pipes: If a pipe looks swollen or bulging, it may indicate that the water inside has frozen and expanded, putting pressure on the pipe.
2. How To Safely Thaw Frozen Pipes in an Emergency
If you suspect that a pipe has frozen, it’s essential to thaw it carefully to avoid causing further damage.
- Open the Faucet: Start by opening the faucet connected to the frozen pipe. As the pipe begins to thaw, the water will start to flow through the faucet, helping to speed up the thawing process.
- Apply Heat: Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or space heater to warm the frozen pipe gently. Start near the faucet and work your way back along the pipe. Never use an open flame, such as a blowtorch, to thaw pipes, as this can cause the pipe to burst or lead to a fire hazard.
- Increase the Room Temperature: If the frozen pipe is in an unheated area, such as a basement or attic, consider using space heaters to raise the temperature of the room and help thaw the pipe.
3. When To Call a Professional Plumber for Your Frozen Pipes
If you're unable to thaw a frozen pipe on your own, or if the pipe has already burst, it’s time to call in a professional.
- Inaccessible Pipes: If the frozen pipe is located inside a wall or in another hard-to-reach area, it’s best to call a plumber. They have specialized tools to thaw pipes without causing damage.
- Burst Pipes: If a pipe has burst, shut off your home’s main water supply immediately and call a plumber to repair the damage. Burst pipes can cause significant water damage, so quick action is crucial.
Long-Term Solutions for Preventing Frozen Pipes From Occurring
If you live in a region where freezing temperatures are typical, it may be worth investing in long-term solutions to prevent frozen pipes. These strategies provide extra protection and help reduce the risk of frozen pipes year after year.
1. Upgrade to Freeze-Resistant Materials
Older homes may have plumbing systems made from materials that are more prone to freezing, such as galvanized steel or copper. Upgrading to modern, freeze-resistant materials like PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) can reduce the risk of frozen pipes.
PEX pipes are more flexible than traditional metal pipes, allowing them to expand slightly when water freezes, which reduces the likelihood of bursting.
2. Install Frost-Proof Faucets
Outdoor faucets are especially prone to freezing, as they are directly exposed to the elements. Replacing standard outdoor faucets with frost-proof or freeze-resistant models can prevent water from freezing inside the pipe.
3. Insulate Your Home’s Exterior Walls
If your home has pipes running through exterior walls, adding insulation to these walls can help protect the pipes from freezing temperatures. Insulating exterior walls can also improve your home’s energy efficiency by keeping the cold air out.
4. Install Pressure Relief Valves
A pressure relief valve can be installed in your plumbing system to prevent pressure build-up when water freezes in the pipes. This helps reduce the risk of pipes bursting due to freezing water expansion.
5. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
Having a professional plumber inspect your plumbing system before the winter season can help identify any vulnerable areas and prevent potential problems. Regular maintenance ensures that your plumbing system is in good working order and ready to withstand the cold.
Emergency Preparedness: What To Do If a Pipe Bursts in Your Home
In the event that a pipe bursts, it’s essential to act quickly to minimize water damage to your home. Here’s what you should do:
- Shut Off the Main Water Supply: Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve and turn it off immediately. This will stop the flow of water and prevent further flooding.
- Turn Off Electricity: If the burst pipe is near electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the electricity in that area to avoid electrocution.
- Call a Plumber: Contact a plumber to repair the burst pipe and assess any damage to your plumbing system.
- Document the Damage: Take photos of any water damage for insurance purposes. You’ll need to provide this documentation when filing a claim with your insurance company.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Home From Frozen Pipes
Preventing frozen pipes requires a combination of proactive measures, proper insulation, and a keen awareness of the weather. By insulating your pipes, maintaining a consistent indoor temperature, and keeping water moving through your plumbing system, you can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes.
However, even with the best precautions, freezing weather can still cause pipes to freeze. Knowing how to thaw pipes safely and when to call in a professional will help you minimize damage and protect your home.
Introducing Plumbing Solutions of WNC: Your Partner in Preventing and Repairing Frozen Pipes in Western North Carolina
At Plumbing Solutions, we understand the importance of protecting your home’s plumbing system from the harsh winter weather. As a local, family-owned business with over 24 years of experience, we have proudly served Buncombe, Henderson, and Transylvania Counties.
Our team of licensed and experienced plumbers is dedicated to helping homeowners prevent and repair frozen pipes. Whether you need help winterizing your plumbing system, thawing a frozen pipe, or repairing a burst pipe,
Plumbing Solutions of WNC is here to help. We offer a full range of plumbing services designed to keep your home’s plumbing system functioning smoothly, no matter how cold the weather gets.
Don’t wait until the first freeze—contact Plumbing Solutions today to schedule an inspection and ensure your home is prepared for winter. Let our experienced team give you peace of mind by protecting your plumbing system from freezing temperatures and costly damage.