Cold temperatures put plumbing at risk. Water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to water leaks and costly damage. Here are steps you can take to keep pipes from freezing.

Water expands when it freezes. If temperatures drop low enough, standing water inside pipes turns to ice. As ice forms, pressure builds, forcing water against the pipe walls. If the pressure has nowhere to go, the pipe bursts.

Exterior walls, basements, crawl spaces, and unheated areas hold the highest risk. Pipes in these locations face cold air exposure, making them more likely to freeze. Even insulated pipes can freeze if outdoor temperatures remain low for long periods.

Insulation slows heat loss, keeping pipes warmer for longer. Exposed pipes in garages, attics, and basements benefit the most from insulation. Foam pipe sleeves, fiberglass wraps, and heat tape help maintain a stable temperature inside the pipes.

Self-regulating heat cables provide extra protection in extreme cold. These cables wrap around pipes and adjust heat output based on temperature changes. They require an electrical connection but work well for pipes at high risk of freezing.

Flowing water freezes slower than standing water. Letting indoor faucets drip on cold nights keeps water moving inside pipes, making it harder for ice to form. Even a slow trickle relieves built-up pressure, reducing the chance of bursting. Dripping both hot and cold water works best. Hot water lines can freeze too, so keeping warm water moving adds another layer of protection.

Cold drafts increase the risk of frozen pipes. Cracks in walls, gaps around doors, and openings near plumbing let cold air in. Sealing these entry points keeps pipes warmer by reducing temperature swings.

Expanding foam, weather stripping, and caulk help seal gaps around plumbing. Basement windows, garage doors, and crawl space vents should stay closed in freezing weather to keep warm air inside.

Letting indoor temperatures drop too low increases the risk of freezing. Keeping the thermostat set to a steady temperature, even overnight, helps prevent pipes from reaching freezing levels.

Opening cabinet doors under sinks allows warm air to reach pipes along exterior walls. This small step keeps temperatures around the pipes higher, reducing the risk of freezing.

Water left inside unused pipes freezes faster. Seasonal plumbing, like outdoor faucets, sprinkler systems, and vacant home plumbing, needs to be drained before winter.

Shutting off the water supply and opening outdoor faucets lets water drain completely. Air compressors help push out any remaining water from sprinkler systems.

For vacant homes, shutting off the main water supply and draining all indoor pipes prevents freezing while the house remains unoccupied.

If water stops flowing from a faucet, the pipe may be frozen. Finding the frozen section early prevents bursting. Pipes with frost buildup, bulging sections, or extreme cold spots likely contain ice.

Safe thawing methods include:

• Applying heat with a hairdryer – Even heat application helps melt ice slowly.
• Using a heating pad or warm towels – Wrapping pipes with a heating source keeps thawing controlled.
• Running warm water through the pipe – Once the ice begins melting, a slow trickle of warm water speeds up thawing.

Open flames should never be used to thaw pipes. Direct heat can weaken pipes, increasing the chance of failure.

If a frozen pipe bursts, water may not leak immediately. Ice inside the pipe blocks water flow, keeping leaks contained. Once the pipe thaws, water escapes, often causing major flooding.

Signs of a burst pipe include:

• Sudden drop in water pressure
• Water stains on walls or ceilings
• Unexplained puddles near plumbing
• Unusual hissing or dripping sounds

Find out how to prepare for plumbing emergencies. Turning off the main water supply and calling a plumber helps prevent further damage if a pipe bursts.

Taking steps before winter keeps pipes protected year after year. Insulating pipes, sealing drafts, and maintaining a steady temperature all help reduce freezing risks. For homes in colder climates, installing frost-free outdoor faucets and using heat cables in vulnerable areas adds an extra layer of protection.

Keeping plumbing in good condition prevents costly repairs and water damage. Winterizing pipes before freezing temperatures arrive keeps the system reliable through the cold months.