How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Winterizing your pipes takes some forethought and practice. The best time to take care of your pipes is in autumn before winter weather sets in. Still, it’s always good to revisit these steps if severe cold temperatures are approaching.

Insulate Pipes
One of the best and most cost-effective methods for preventing frozen water pipes is to wrap them with insulation. This is especially important for areas in your home, such as an attic or crawl space where there is no heat. Foam sleeves, heat tape, or heat cables with a thermostat control are typically available at your local hardware store. The best pipe insulation for your situation will depend on your home. Always install according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Keep Heat Running at 65
Water pipes are inside your walls, and the temperature is much colder than the rest of the house. The Insurance Information Institute suggests that you keep your home heated to at least 65 degrees, even when traveling.

Seal cracks where pipes enter your home
Seal or caulk any cracks that might let in cold air, especially where pipes, vents, and drains enter.

Leave Water Dripping
You should leave water dripping from a faucet when the temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, which is considered the threshold at which pipes are most likely to freeze and burst.

Drain and Cover Outdoor Faucets and Disconnect Hoses
When sealed correctly, a faucet cover traps heat around the tap, preventing the formation of frost and the resultant cold from traveling down the pipeline. Frost-free faucets are designed to handle freezing temperatures without the need for outdoor faucet covers.

If your pipes do freeze…
Turn on your faucets. If nothing comes out, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve, leave the faucets on, and call a plumber.
If practical, pipes can be thawed with warm air from a hair dryer. Start by warming the pipe as close to the faucet as possible, working toward the coldest section. Never thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame.