Winter brings its own set of challenges—like the risk of frozen pipes or, even worse, a burst pipe. Definitely not the cozy winter vibe anyone’s going for. Frozen pipes don’t just block water flow—they can burst and turn your home into an unexpected water park. The good news? With a few simple steps, you can prevent frozen pipes and know exactly what to do if the worst happens.
1. Insulate Your Pipes
If you have exposed pipes in cold spots like basements, attics, or garages, give them a coat of insulation or heat tape. You can grab both at the hardware store, and it’s way cheaper than fixing a burst pipe.
3. Keep Cabinet Doors Open
Open up the cabinet doors under your sinks. This lets warm air from your home get in and keep your pipes cozy. Bonus points if you have a space heater nearby.
4. Keep the Heat On
Even if you’re out of town, don’t skimp on the thermostat. Keep it set to at least 55°F—it’s worth it to avoid frozen pipes. Plus, you’ll thank yourself when you don’t have to throw on another layer when you get home.
5. Block the Drafts
Cold air sneaks in through gaps and cracks around windows, doors, or vents. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal those off and keep the chill outside.
Signs of a Frozen Pipe
Think your pipes might be frozen? Here are the telltale signs:
- No Water: If your facet barely drips when you turn it on, a pipe might be frozen and blocking the flow of water.
- Weird Smells: Strange odors coming from your faucet or drain? This could mean ice is blocking the pipe and trapping smells.
- Frosty Pipes: If you can see your pipes and they look like they’ve been through a snowstorm, chances are you have a frozen pipe.
Uh Oh, My Pipe Froze – Now What?
If you discover a frozen pipe, don’t freak out yet. Here’s what to do:
- Shut Off the Water: Turn off your main water supply. This keeps things under control if the pipe bursts while you’re thawing it out.
- Warm It Up Slowly: Grab a hairdryer, heating pad, or some warm towels and apply heat to the frozen section. Start near the faucet and work your way back. Avoid anything extreme like a blowtorch (seriously, don’t do that).
- Keep the Faucet Open: As the ice melts, water will start flowing. Let it run to help speed up the thawing process.
- Check for Leaks: Once the pipe is thawed, look for any cracks or drips. If you spot damage, call a plumber ASAP.
What if a Pipe Bursts?
A burst pipe is messy, but quick action can limit the damage:
- Turn off the Main Water Valve: The faster you stop the water, the less cleanup you’ll have to do.
- Call a Plumber: Let the pros handle the repairs. They’ll make sure everything’s good to go and there aren’t any other pipes that could become problematic.
- Document the Damage: Snap photos or videos of the damage in the event you need to file a claim.
- Contact Your Insurance: Make sure to reach out to your insurance company right away. If your policy covers it, they’ll help with repairs and cleanup costs.
Don’t Forget About Your Insurance
Now’s a great time to give your home insurance policy a quick review. Most policies cover sudden water damage from things like a burst pipe, but they won’t cover damage caused by neglect (like leaving the heat off during a freeze). If you’re unsure about your coverage, give your agent a call – they’re there to help. Plus, better safe than sorry, right?
Frozen pipes are a headache, but with a little prep, you can avoid the hassle altogether. And if something does go south, now you know what to do. So, go on—grab some pipe insulation, seal those drafts, and enjoy a winter free of plumbing drama.