Your home’s pipes deliver water to the kitchen and bathrooms. These pipes can freeze during harsh cold weather and leave you without water for meals, showers and other daily needs.
Take several steps to prevent frozen pipes, and know how to thaw frozen pipes properly to protect your home and family this winter.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
Most homes are built to withstand cold temperatures. However, design flaws, foundation weaknesses, or unexpectedly low temperatures increase the likelihood that your home’s pipes will freeze. When the forecast calls for freezing temperatures, prepare your home in several ways.
- Close crawl space vents and insulate areas around exposed pipes to protect the pipes from cold air.
- Turn on faucets and let them drip overnight. This is especially important for faucets attached to exposed pipes or located near exterior walls that get cold quickly.
- Open cabinet doors to keep the pipes warm. Remove cleaning solutions and other harmful items from the cabinets to protect children and pets.
- Maintain the same indoor temperature day and night. A consistent indoor temperature of at least 55 degrees can help protect your water pipes.
If your home uses nonstandard plumbing materials, consider whether specific coverage applies for those materials by reviewing options such as Plastics Pipe Insurance.
Thaw Frozen Pipes
Despite precautions, pipes may still freeze as temperatures plummet. Thaw frozen pipes properly using safe steps to avoid damage and injury.
- Shut off the main water supply to the frozen pipes. If the pipes have burst, this step will prevent major water damage to your home.
- Turn on the faucets. As the ice melts, water will begin to flow slowly again and help speed the thawing process.
- Apply heat to the frozen pipes until they fully thaw. Wrap a heating pad or hot towels around the pipe or use a hair dryer for safety.
- Exercise caution when thawing pipes. Never use an open flame or a propane or kerosene heater because these devices could cause a fire. Also avoid overloading electrical circuits, using space heaters unattended, or leaving the oven door open to heat pipes.
- Call a plumber if your DIY attempts don’t work. A professional can locate the troublesome section, fix the problem, and restore your running water.
This winter, take several steps to protect your water pipes from freezing or to thaw frozen pipes safely. You should also update your homeowners insurance policy and review coverage options such as Winter Weather Insurance for additional protection. If you need help reviewing your policy, consider asking your agent by choosing to talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if a pipe is frozen?
Signs include little or no water coming from faucets, frost on exposed pipes, or unusual noises when turning on taps.
Can I thaw a frozen pipe myself?
Yes, you can often thaw small sections safely using a hair dryer, heating pad, or hot towels, but avoid open flames and call a plumber if you suspect a burst pipe.
What should I do if a pipe bursts?
Shut off the main water supply immediately, turn on faucets to relieve pressure, and contact a qualified plumber to repair the damage.
Will my homeowners insurance cover damage from frozen pipes?
Policies vary; many homeowners policies cover sudden water damage from burst pipes, but coverage depends on the cause and policy terms—check your policy or ask your agent.