Prevent Frozen Pipes: Winter Plumbing Tips for Homeowners

Winter sneaks up fast. One cold snap, and suddenly your pipes are at risk—often in the very spots you never think to check. As temperatures plunge, frozen pipes become the enemy of every cozy home. When pipes freeze, they can burst, flooding your rooms and turning a peaceful winter day into an emergency plumbing nightmare.

At Fergusons Plumbing, we know the havoc winter can bring. With decades of experience handling everything from pipe installation to midnight leak repairs, we’re here to help you stay safe, dry, and in control this season.

Why Pipes Freeze ❄️

Pipes are like the veins of your home. When temperatures drop, water inside them can freeze—expanding like a tightly packed ice tray, pressing against pipe walls until they split wide open.

Risk Areas:

• Uninsulated pipes in basements, attics, or crawl spaces
• Pipes running along exterior walls
• Areas with poor airflow or drafts

Climate Factors: Even if your neighborhood rarely sees snow, a single frigid night can cause trouble. According to the International Plumbing Code (IPC) and recommendations from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), pipes are at risk when temperatures fall below 20°F (-6°C).

Prevention Checklist: Keep Pipes Flowing

Think of this as your winter armor. A little work now can save a lot of heartache later.

• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use foam sleeves, fiberglass, or even newspaper for a quick fix. Focus on garages, crawl spaces, and attics.
• Seal Cracks & Holes: Check walls and foundations for gaps that let cold air in. Caulk or use spray foam to block them.
• Let Faucets Drip: On the coldest nights, a slow trickle keeps water moving and helps prevent freezing.
• Open Cabinet Doors: Under sinks, especially on exterior walls, open the doors to circulate warm air.
• Apply Heat Tape: Wrap electric heat tape around pipes prone to freezing (follow all safety instructions and local codes).
• Disconnect Hoses: Remove, drain, and store garden hoses. Shut off and drain outdoor faucets.

A few minutes with a flashlight now can save you from a flood later.

Signs of Frozen Pipes & What to Do

You wake up, turn the tap, and… nothing. Or maybe water just trickles out. Don’t panic—but don’t wait, either.

Common Warning Signs

• No water (or very little) from faucets
• Frost on pipes
• Strange clanking or banging noises in the walls
• Wet spots, bulges, or musty smells (signs of a burst)

Thawing Pipes—The Safe Way

1. Turn off the Main Water Valve: If you suspect a burst, shut off water to prevent flooding.
2. Apply Gentle Heat: Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels on the frozen section. Never use open flames or torches.
3. Open the Faucet: Allow melted water to escape.
4. Check for Leaks: Once thawed, look closely. If you see drips or water stains, call for emergency plumbing help.

If you can’t reach the frozen section, or if you notice a split in the pipe, it’s time to call Fergusons Plumbing.

When to Call a Pro vs. DIY

Some fixes are easy. Some are not. Here’s how to know when it’s time to pick up the phone.

DIY is Usually Safe If:

• The frozen pipe is exposed and easy to reach
• There’s no visible damage or water leaking
• You have the right tools and know-how

Call a Pro If:

• Pipes are hidden in walls or under floors
• You suspect a burst or major leak
• There’s water damage, mold, or flooding
• You’re not sure what to do next

Fergusons Plumbing responds fast—day or night. Our team is trained in safe thawing, leak repair, and emergency plumbing for homes of all shapes and sizes.

What the Pros Do on Arrival

When Fergusons Plumbing shows up, we bring more than just wrenches.

• Rapid Assessment: We locate the freeze or break, even behind walls or deep in crawl spaces, using advanced leak detection tools.
• Safe Thawing: Heat is applied precisely—no risk of fire or further damage.
• Pipe Repair or Replacement: We handle everything from simple fixes to full repiping or pipe installation near you.
• Water Damage Control: We help stop further damage and guide cleanup steps.
• Prevention Tips: Before we leave, you’ll know how to keep it from happening again.

Prevention & Maintenance: Stay Ahead of the Freeze

Don’t wait for bad luck. Make winterizing your plumbing part of your yearly routine.

• Have Your Home Inspected: Schedule an annual check-up—especially if you have older pipes, a history of leaks, or new renovations.
• Upgrade Insulation: Modern pipe insulation is affordable and lasts for years.
• Install Smart Sensors: Leak detectors can warn you before disaster strikes.
• Plan for Power Outages: If you lose heat, keep cabinet doors open and faucets dripping.
• Know Where Your Shut-Off Valve Is: Every family member should know how to stop the water in an emergency.

Refer to the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) for regional best practices and consider recommendations from the American Red Cross for home winterization.

Costs & Time Factors

How much will it set you back? It depends. Here’s what homeowners should know:

• Prevention is Affordable: Insulation and basic supplies cost far less than repairs.
• Emergency Plumbing Costs: Repairs for burst pipes or major leaks can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on damage and access.
• Time to Fix: Thawing a pipe may take 30 minutes to a few hours. Burst pipe repairs or repiping can stretch to a day or more, especially if walls or floors are involved.

Remember: catching a problem early always saves money and stress.

When It’s an Emergency 🚨

Frozen pipes are urgent. But a burst pipe? That’s a full-blown emergency.

Call Fergusons Plumbing immediately if:

• You see water pouring out or pooling indoors
• You hear loud banging or rushing water inside walls
• Water pressure suddenly drops or stops
• There’s visible pipe damage or splitting

Turn off your main water supply and reach out—quick action limits damage and makes repairs easier.

FAQ: Winter Plumbing Questions

How cold does it have to get for pipes to freeze?

Pipes can freeze when temperatures dip below 20°F (-6°C), but wind chill, poor insulation, and drafts can trigger freezing even at higher temps.

Should I leave my heat on when I’m away?

Yes. Keep your thermostat set no lower than 55°F (13°C). Open cabinets under sinks to let warm air circulate.

Can I prevent frozen pipes with just insulation?

Insulation is a strong first step, but combine it with sealing gaps, letting faucets drip, and regular checks for best results.

What if my pipe bursts in the middle of the night?

Call for emergency plumbing help right away. Shut off water at the main valve and clear valuables from the area if it’s safe.

Local & Seasonal Considerations

Every home is different. In older houses, pipes are often closer to exterior walls or poorly insulated. Newer builds might have better protection, but even then, sudden cold snaps can cause surprise problems.

If your winter forecast calls for temperatures below freezing, don’t wait. Prepare now. Remember, even homes in milder climates can face frozen pipes during unusually cold spells.

Stay alert to weather advisories and follow local building codes for insulation and safety.

When winter puts your pipes to the test, Fergusons Plumbing is ready 24/7. Need help now or want to schedule a winterization check?

Call Fergusons Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  844-493-8438 .