How to Prevent Frozen Pipes (and Save Yourself a Burst)

Frozen pipes don't burst from the freezing — they burst when the ice expands AND when water trapped between the freeze and a closed faucet has nowhere to go. Prevention is straightforward:

Before a cold snap

• Insulate any exposed pipes in basements, crawlspaces, garages, and unheated areas
• Disconnect outdoor hoses; close the indoor shutoff valve for outdoor spigots
• Seal cracks and openings near pipes (cold air leaks)
• Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to let warm air in

During the cold snap

• Set thermostat to at least 55°F even when away
• Let faucets drip slightly on exterior walls — moving water freezes much slower
• Open cabinet doors under sinks

If a pipe freezes

• Shut off the water main as a precaution
• Thaw with a hair dryer or heating pad — NEVER an open flame
• Start near the faucet and work back toward the frozen section
• Open the faucet to let water flow as it thaws

If a pipe bursts from freezing

Shut off the water main immediately and call us. We're 24/7 for emergencies.