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Frozen water inside pipes can expand and put pressure on the pipe walls, potentially causing them to crack or burst. Frozen pipes are a common problem in areas with harsh winters, potentially leading to costly repairs and water damage in your home.
You can prevent frozen pipes by insulating them, keeping your home warm, and letting faucets drip during colder nights. Taking these precautions can save you from the headache of dealing with burst pipes when temperatures drop.
Water expands when it freezes and this expansion puts pressure on pipes. As the water turns to ice, it takes up about 9% more space and your pipes might not be able to handle this extra pressure.
Different pipe materials also react differently to freezing. Metal pipes can burst from the pressure. Plastic pipes may stretch a bit, but they can still crack. Copper pipes are often used because they conduct heat well. But they can still fail if the water inside freezes completely.
Good insulation prevents pipes from freezing as it slows heat loss from the water inside. Pipes in outside walls or unheated areas are at higher risk and you should add extra insulation where necessary. Extremely cold weather makes pipes more likely to freeze, while wind chill can make it worse by pulling heat away faster. Therefore, pipes in drafty areas also need extra protection.
As water freezes in pipes, it can create blockages that stop water flow and can lead to a buildup of pressure between the blockage and a closed faucet. The pressure can become so high that it bursts the pipe. Even a small crack can release a lot of water. This is why you're told to let faucets drip in very cold weather as moving water helps prevent freezing and reduces pressure buildup.
Frozen pipes don't always burst right away and might only burst when they start to thaw. As the ice melts, water rushes in and increases pressure, and this sudden pressure change can cause the pipe to fail.
You can take steps to protect your pipes from freezing and bursting in cold weather. These measures range from simple DIY tasks to professional services.
Insulating your pipes is a key way to prevent freezing so wrap exposed pipes with foam pipe insulation or heat tape. Focus on pipes in unheated areas like basements and attics, not forgetting outdoor faucets and pipes in exterior walls. For added protection, use electric heating pads on at-risk pipes which can be controlled with a thermostat when temperatures drop.
Just as importantly, keep your home warm, even when you're away. Setting your thermostat no lower than 55°F (13°C) as this helps maintain a safe temperature for your plumbing system.
Smart thermostats can help you monitor and control your home's temperature remotely and some models can send alerts if the temperature drops too low. Water sensors near pipes also detect leaks early, notifying you on your phone if they sense moisture. Meanwhile, smart water valves automatically shut off your water supply if they detect unusual flow, which could indicate a burst pipe.
Hiring a plumber for winterization can give you peace of mind as they'll inspect your plumbing system and address any weak points. They can blow out your sprinkler system to remove all water to prevent freezing in outdoor pipes and sprinkler heads. They’ll also add extra insulation to pipes in hard-to-reach areas and might suggest upgrades like pipe sleeves or heat cables for problem spots.
Burst pipes can lead to serious issues in your home, primarily water damage, and mold growth.
When a pipe bursts, water quickly spreads through your home and can soak into walls, floors, and ceilings. This causes paint to peel, wood to warp, drywall to crumble, and insulation to become waterlogged. Water can also damage your belongings, such as books, furniture, and electronics. Carpets and rugs may also need replacing.
In severe cases, water can weaken your home's structure which might lead to sagging floors or cracks in walls and ceilings. You'll need to act fast to stop the water flow. Then, you must dry out your home quickly to prevent further damage to your property.
Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours after water damage as it thrives in damp, dark places. Common spots include inside walls, under floors, and in attics. Mold can cause health issues and you might have allergic reactions or breathing problems. Some types of mold can also be toxic.
Prevent mold by drying out your home fast using fans and dehumidifiers and removing wet items like carpets and furniture. Clean and disinfect all surfaces touched by water, and if mold does grow, you may need professional help to remove it safely. Don't ignore it, as mold can spread quickly through your home.
Quick action is key when dealing with frozen or burst pipes and key steps include knowing how to thaw pipes safely, locating your main water shutoff, and when to call a professional.
If you suspect a frozen pipe, turn on the faucet connected to it to relieve pressure and allow water to flow as the pipe thaws. Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or hot towel to warm the pipe gently, starting near the faucet and working toward colder areas.
Never use open flames or electrical devices near standing water and keep the faucet open as you work. If the pipe is behind a wall, turn up your home's heat and open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate sufficiently.
Your main water shutoff valve is crucial in emergencies and it’s often near where the main water line enters your home, typically in the basement or crawl space. In warmer states, it might be outside by the water meter.
The valve usually looks like a wheel or lever and you need to turn it clockwise to shut off water to your entire home. Ensure everyone in your household knows its location and put a tag on the valve for easy identification. Testing it yearly to ensure it works and doesn't stick.
Hire a licensed plumber for complex issues such as if you can't thaw a frozen pipe or if you find a burst pipe yourself. They have tools to locate hard-to-find leaks and can repair pipes without causing more damage.
For after-hours emergencies, look for 24/7 plumbing services, keeping a trusted plumber's contact information handy.
Speak to us today to arrange your next inspection so your home is fully prepped for winter.
