As winter temperatures drop in December, frozen pipes become one of the most common — and costly — plumbing emergencies homeowners face. A frozen pipe can quickly burst, leading to major water damage, expensive repairs, and unexpected stress during the coldest time of year.
The good news? Most frozen pipe problems are preventable. Here’s how to protect your home this winter — and what to do immediately if your pipes freeze.
Why Frozen Pipes Are So Dangerous
When water freezes, it expands. Inside a pipe, that expansion creates intense pressure, which can cause the pipe to crack or burst. Once the ice thaws, water can flood your home in minutes.
Frozen pipes often occur in:
- Basements and crawl spaces
- Exterior walls
- Garages
- Unheated rooms
- Outdoor hose bibs
Even a small crack can cause thousands of dollars in damage if left unchecked.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation or heat tape, especially in unheated areas. This is one of the most effective and affordable preventative steps.
Keep a Consistent Indoor Temperature
Even if you’re away, keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F. Sudden temperature drops are a leading cause of frozen pipes.
Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold
Allowing a small, steady drip keeps water moving and reduces pressure buildup if freezing begins.
Open Cabinet Doors
Opening kitchen and bathroom cabinets allows warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Remove hoses and shut off exterior water supplies before freezing temperatures arrive. Drain any remaining water from outdoor lines.
Seal Drafts and Cracks
Use caulk or insulation to seal gaps around windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home.
Signs Your Pipes May Be Frozen
- No water coming from faucets
- Frost visible on exposed pipes
- Strange odors from drains or faucets
- Unusual sounds when turning on water
If you notice these signs, act quickly to avoid a burst pipe.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
Shut Off the Water Supply
Turn off your main water valve immediately to reduce the risk of flooding if the pipe bursts.
Apply Gentle Heat
Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels to slowly thaw the pipe. Start closest to the faucet and work your way toward the frozen section.
Never Use Open Flames
Do not use torches, propane heaters, or open flames. These are serious fire hazards and can damage pipes.
Call a Professional Plumber
If you can’t locate the frozen area, the pipe has burst, or you’re unsure what to do next, call a licensed plumber right away.
Why Professional Help Matters
Frozen pipes often cause damage you can’t see behind walls or under floors. A professional plumber can:
- Safely thaw frozen lines
- Identify hidden damage
- Prevent future freezing issues
- Repair or replace damaged pipes correctly
Quick professional response can save you thousands in water damage repairs.
Protect Your Home This Winter
December is the peak season for frozen pipe emergencies — but with the right preparation, you can avoid them altogether. If you’re concerned about your plumbing or need help winterizing your home, now is the time to act.
Contact BMB & Sons LLC today for professional plumbing service, emergency repairs, and winter plumbing protection you can trust.
