Every winter, countless homes become victims of frozen pipes. Pressure from the expanding ice damages pipes, causing them to break. So when the ice thaws, water floods the building, causing thousands of dollars in damages. In fact, roughly a quarter of all insurance claims are caused by freezing and water damage. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average claim value is an eye-watering $12,514! It almost goes without saying that a frozen pipe can easily ruin your holidays.
What makes frozen pipes so damaging is that they often occur without the knowledge of the homeowner. We can’t see the pipes in our buildings and the issue doesn’t reveal itself until temperatures start to warm. At that point, you could be looking at a plumbing catastrophe.
By learning what residential plumbing is most at risk, some simple preventative steps, and what to do if a pipe freezes, you can avoid an emergency and prevent a costly repair bill.
At-Risk Pipes in Residential Plumbing
Your most at-risk pipes are those that are exposed to the elements. These include outdoor pipes such as hose hookups, swimming pools, or sprinkler lines. Exposed interior pipes in attics, crawlspaces, garages, and under sinks are also at high risk for freezing.
Most building codes don’t allow water-carrying pipes to be installed in exterior walls without insulation due to freezing. However, not all codes have this requirement, and not all builders always follow all building codes. It’s recommended that you check all exterior walls for uninsulated pipes.
Steps to Prevent Pipes From Freezing
One of the most important preventative steps you take to take care of your pipes is to keep your home warm. Program your thermostat to 55 degrees Fahrenheit or more, even at night or when you’re not home. The warmer temperature will prevent water in your pipes from dropping below freezing.
Insulate any exposed pipes you have in attics, basements, or crawl spaces. These spaces are often unheated or stay colder than the rest of your house. Plus, insulation is much, much more cost-effective than dealing with a burst pipe.
During winter, keep faucets running at a constant slow trickle. With water constantly running through pipes, it won’t have time to sit and reach its freezing point. Keep cabinet doors open under your sinks to allow heated air to flow around the pipes.
If you have any outdoor water lines, such as hoses or sprinklers, close their shutoff valves before winter. Then run them until the water drains to prevent water from freezing in the pipes.
How to Deal With a Frozen Pipe
If, despite your best prevention efforts, you suspect you have a frozen pipe there are steps to take to minimize the damage. Turn off the building’s main shutoff valve. Open the faucet to run warmer water to the ice and allow water to drain as the ice plug melts. Warm the pipes with a hair dryer, space heater, or even warm water-soaked towels. Don’t use too high heat as it can damage the pipe. Keep the heat on the frozen pipe until the ice melts and the water pressure returns to normal. If you think you have a frozen pipe at home and can’t locate it, it’s time to call a plumber.
In the end, the best way to handle frozen pipes is to recognize which pipes in your house are most likely to freeze and apply preventative measures. Protecting your pipes will help protect the rest of your home, avoid costly repairs, and give you peace of mind to enjoy the winter without worrying about your plumbing.
