How Do I Prevent Pipes From Freezing in Winter?

Start by finding pipes in unheated areas like attics, garages, and crawl spaces. Wrap them with foam pipe insulation or heat tape, available at hardware stores. Pay extra attention to pipes near exterior walls, as they are most vulnerable to freezing.

Check for gaps around pipe entry points and seal them with caulk or spray foam. This keeps cold air away from the pipes. Insulation slows heat loss, giving the water inside more time to stay above freezing. A little effort here can prevent a major mess later.

• Use foam sleeves or heat tape on exposed pipes
• Seal gaps around pipes with caulk or spray foam
• Insulate pipes in attics, garages, and crawl spaces
• Wrap pipes near exterior walls with extra layers
• Check insulation before the first cold snap

Cold air entering through gaps around windows, doors, and pipe penetrations can lower the temperature near pipes. Use weatherstripping on doors and windows, and apply caulk around any cracks. This keeps warm air inside where it belongs.

Also check for drafts in the crawl space or attic. A small gap can let in enough cold air to freeze a nearby pipe. Sealing these leaks not only protects pipes but also lowers your heating bill. It is a simple task you can do in an afternoon.

If a pipe freezes, turn on the faucet to relieve pressure, then gently warm the pipe with a hair dryer or space heater. Never use an open flame, as it can damage the pipe or start a fire. Start from the faucet end and work toward the blockage.

If the pipe bursts, shut off the main water valve immediately. Then call local water damage pros to handle the cleanup and repairs. They can extract standing water, dry the area, and restore damaged walls or floors. Acting fast limits the damage.