How to Prevent Frozen Pipes: Winter Plumbing Checklist

Is your house ready for the deep freeze? Whether you’re in the heart of a snowy winter or just bracing for the occasional cold snap, frozen pipes can sneak up on anyone. A single icy night can lead to a burst pipe, turning your cozy home into a waterlogged mess.

At Alvin’s Plumbing, we’ve seen it all—from mild chills to bone-rattling cold. As licensed and insured plumbers, we know how fast a frozen pipe can become an emergency plumbing disaster. Here’s your real-world checklist for keeping your plumbing safe this winter.

Why Pipes Freeze 🧊

When the temperature drops, water inside your pipes acts like a soda can left in the freezer. As water freezes, it expands. Pipes—especially metal or plastic—can’t stretch much. Pressure builds until, suddenly, the pipe splits open. Now, you’re dealing with flooding, ruined drywall, and expensive repairs.

It doesn’t take arctic weather, either. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, pipes can freeze when outside temps drop below 20°F (-6°C). In mild climates, pipes may be even more vulnerable if they’re not insulated, since homes aren’t built for freezing weather.

Areas Most at Risk

Some parts of your house are more vulnerable than others. If you know where to look, you can spot the warning signs before trouble strikes.

• Attics and crawl spaces: These spots are often poorly insulated.
• Basements: Pipes near exterior walls are at risk.
• Garages: Pipes here are exposed to the cold.
• Kitchen and bathroom cabinets: Pipes run along outside walls behind these cabinets.
• Unheated rooms or additions: Sunrooms, mudrooms, or additions sometimes miss out on the main home’s warmth.

Remember: Even “hidden” pipes can freeze if the temperature drops low enough.

How to Insulate Pipes

Insulating your pipes is like wrapping them in a warm winter coat. It’s one of the simplest, most effective ways to prevent freezing.

Step-by-step insulation:

1. Find exposed pipes: Look in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and under sinks.
2. Measure and cut insulation: Use foam pipe sleeves or fiberglass pipe wrap, available at hardware stores.
3. Wrap snugly: Slide or wrap the insulation around the pipe, making sure there are no gaps.
4. Seal joints: Use duct tape or insulation tape to cover seams and elbows.
5. Don’t forget outdoor spigots: Install insulated covers on hose bibs and shut off water to exterior faucets.

For extra cold spots, add a layer of heat tape—a UL-listed heating cable that plugs in and keeps pipes warm (always follow manufacturer instructions and local code). The U.S. Department of Energy recommends insulating both hot and cold water pipes for best results.

Smart Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat is your first line of defense. Pipes freeze when the temperature inside your home drops too low—even if you’re not there.

• Set the thermostat: Keep it at least 55°F (13°C), day and night—even if you’re away.
• Open cabinet doors: Under sinks in kitchens and bathrooms, let warm air circulate over pipes.
• Let faucets drip: A slow drip keeps water moving, reducing the risk of freezing.
• Use smart tech: Programmable thermostats can help maintain consistent warmth and alert you if temperatures drop.

In mild climates, homeowners sometimes lower the heat to save energy, but a burst pipe costs far more than a few extra dollars on your heating bill.

What to Do if a Pipe Freezes 🚨

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a pipe might freeze. Here’s how to act quickly and avoid the worst:

1. Turn off the main water supply: This limits flooding if the pipe bursts.
2. Open faucets: Relieves pressure and encourages thawing.
3. Gently warm the pipe: Use a hair dryer, heat lamp, or portable heater. Start from the faucet end and work back.
4. Never use open flames: Blowtorches or propane heaters are fire hazards and unsafe.
5. Check for leaks: Once the pipe thaws, watch for signs of water escaping.

If the pipe is hidden, won’t thaw, or you see any cracking or bulging, call Alvin’s Plumbing right away. Emergency plumbing is what we do best.

Quick Safety Checklist

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas.
• Keep home heat above 55°F (13°C).
• Shut off and drain outdoor faucets.
• Open cabinets under sinks during cold snaps.
• Let faucets drip in extreme cold.
• Know where your main water shutoff is located.
• Check pipes regularly for frost or bulging.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

DIY is good for:

• Adding insulation to visible pipes.
• Installing faucet covers.
• Letting faucets drip.

Call a plumber if:

• You have pipes in hard-to-reach places.
• You notice low water pressure (a sign of partial freezing).
• You find a burst pipe.
• You want a thorough winterization and inspection.

At Alvin’s Plumbing, our licensed plumbers can spot hidden risks, perform code-compliant upgrades, and handle emergencies safely—no guesswork.

What Pros Do On Arrival

When you call Alvin’s Plumbing for frozen or burst pipes, here’s what to expect:

• Quick shutoff: We’ll locate and turn off your main water supply.
• Inspection: Using thermal cameras and moisture meters, we find the frozen or burst section.
• Safe thawing: We use professional-grade heaters and pipe thawing equipment.
• Pipe repair or replacement: If the pipe is damaged, we’ll handle the repairs—whether it’s copper, PVC, or PEX.
• Cleanup and advice: We help prevent mold and give you practical steps to avoid future problems.

We’re also equipped for sewer line repair, leak detection, and emergency plumbing—no matter how cold it gets.

Prevention & Maintenance

Routine maintenance is your best defense against winter disasters. Simple steps can make all the difference:

• Annual inspections: Have your plumbing checked before winter hits.
• Seal leaks: Close gaps around pipes where cold air can seep in.
• Upgrade old pipes: Consider repiping if your home has outdated or corrosion-prone lines.
• Install heat cables: For persistent trouble spots, these can be a lifesaver.
• Schedule backflow testing: Prevent contaminated water from entering your supply if a burst happens.

Proactive maintenance is like an insurance policy for your plumbing.

Costs & Time Factors

Dealing with frozen pipes can save or cost you hundreds—sometimes thousands—depending on the situation.

• Insulation materials: Usually affordable and quick to install.
• Professional winterization: Varies based on home size and pipe access, often completed in a few hours.
• Thawing pipes: Can range from a quick fix to several hours, especially if pipes are behind walls.
• Burst pipe repair: More complex jobs take longer and are more costly, especially if there’s water damage.

Waiting until a pipe bursts means more time, more mess, and higher repair bills. Prevention is always the better investment.

When It’s an Emergency

Some plumbing problems can wait. Frozen pipes aren’t one of them. If you notice:

• Water stops flowing suddenly.
• You hear strange noises (like banging or clanging).
• There’s visible frost on pipes.
• Water stains or pooling in unlikely places.

Call Alvin’s Plumbing for emergency plumbing service—day or night. Quick action can save your home from major damage.

FAQ

How can I tell if my pipes are frozen?

Signs include no water from faucets, visible frost on pipes, or strange sounds in the walls. If you suspect a frozen pipe, act fast—shut off the main water and try to thaw the pipe safely.

What temperature do pipes freeze?

Most pipes freeze when outside temps drop below 20°F (-6°C), but poorly insulated pipes in mild climates can freeze at higher temperatures if there’s a cold draft.

Will pipe insulation alone prevent freezing?

Insulation greatly reduces the risk but isn’t foolproof if the temperature drops very low or there are air leaks. Combine insulation with good thermostat settings and sealing drafts for best results.

What if my pipes burst?

Shut off your main water supply immediately and call Alvin’s Plumbing. Clean up water quickly to prevent mold, and avoid using electrical appliances near water-damaged areas.

Local/Seasonal Considerations ❄️

Whether you live in a chilly northern zone or a region with only the occasional frost, winter plumbing prep is wise. In cold climates, winterization should be a yearly ritual—just like checking your furnace or smoke alarms. In milder areas, don’t be lulled into a false sense of security: sudden temperature swings can catch uninsulated pipes off guard.

Remember, local plumbing codes may require certain types of insulation or backflow prevention. The International Plumbing Code and local authorities have guidelines to help keep your home safe—ask us if you’re unsure what applies where you live.

Frozen pipes don’t have to ruin your winter. With a little preparation—and a reliable emergency plumbing team—your home can stay safe and dry all season long.

Call Alvin's Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  888-565-9676 .