When temperatures drop below freezing, one of the biggest risks homeowners face is frozen pipes. Water expands as it freezes, putting pressure on pipes that can lead to cracks or even full bursts.
Catching the signs early can save you from costly repairs and major water damage. Learn how to recognize which which pipes are most at risk, what temperatures trigger freezing, and what to do when you suspect trouble.
How Cold Does It Have to Be for Pipes to Freeze
Most pipes begin to freeze when temperatures drop to around 20°F (-6°C) or lower. The risk goes up the longer the cold spell lasts and the colder it gets.
Wind chill also draws out heat from exposed areas. That means that even if the thermometer shows above 20°F, pipes in drafty spots could still be at risk due to icy winds.
How to Identify Pipes Most at Risk of Freezing
"The pipes most likely to freeze are ones exposed to cold air or located in unheated areas like crawl spaces, attics, basements, garages and exterior walls," highlighted Shaylin King, Owner of Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Tri-Cities, Yakima, Hermiston. "Spot risks by checking for drafts near wall outlets or baseboards."
Walk through your home, and pay attention. Look for sections of pipe that run along exterior walls or in corners where insulation may be thin. These are the first pipes you want to monitor when temperatures drop.
Signs That Your Pipes Might Be Freezing
When a pipe begins to freeze, it expands and puts tremendous pressure on the pipe walls. This partial freeze is often noticeable. Here are signs to watch for:
- Reduced or No Water Flow: A faucet that only trickles—or doesn’t run at all—can mean ice is blocking the pipe. A blocked pipe can quickly become a burst pipe.
- Unusual Sounds: Banging, clanking, or gurgling noises from your water pipes may indicate that ice is forming inside and restricting flow.
- Visible Frost on Pipes: Check exposed pipes in basements, attics, or under sinks. The presence of frost or condensation on the surface can signal pipe freezing.
- Cold Spots in Walls or Floors: Pipes hidden behind exterior walls or under floors can make surfaces noticeably colder to the touch.
- Foul Odors from Drains: A frozen pipe can block airflow, forcing bad smells back up through your sinks or drain pipes.
What to Do if Your Pipes Are Freezing
Act quickly, but safely. Gradual heating is the safest method because too much too fast can cause pipes to crack.
- Open the faucets in your home slightly to relieve pressure. Just a trickle, not full blast. You want to allow any melting ice to flow.
- Apply gentle heat to the pipe (or, if out of sight, to the areas near the pipe). Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or space heater; never use an open flame. You can also turn up the thermostat.
- Warm the area around the pipe with a warm, damp towel.
- Check other areas throughout the house for signs of freezing.
- Inspect for leaks once water flow returns. Contact a plumber immediately if one is detected.
Tips to Prevent Future Freezing
Preventing frozen pipes comes down to maintaining steady warmth:
- Keep your thermostat set above 55°F, even when you’re away.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around plumbing.
- Insulate pipes in cold or unheated spaces using foam sleeves or heat tape.
- Seal gaps or cracks around windows, outlets, and doors to block drafts.
- In extremely cold climates, install heat cables or tape along vulnerable pipes for additional protection.
- If you know a deep freeze is coming, let faucets drip slightly overnight... moving water is less likely to freeze!
FAQ
Can Pipes Freeze Even If My House Is Heated?
They sure can. Even if your home is heated, areas like basements, attics, or garages may not get enough warmth.
Pay attention to rooms that don't have heating. In rooms that do, make sure vents are open.
Heat often doesn’t reach the outer walls or corners where pipes run, especially in older homes or those with poor insulation. Remember to check these spots and add insulation where needed.
Should I Shut Off My Water When Leaving for Vacation?
If you’re leaving during cold weather, yes. Shutting off your home’s main water supply and draining the system can prevent damage if a pipe freezes while you’re gone. If shutting it off isn’t an option, keep the heat on and ask a neighbor to check in during extreme cold spells.
Should I use hot water to thaw frozen pipes?
No, avoid rapid temperature changes! It’s best to avoid pouring hot water directly on frozen pipes, as it can cause cracked pipes. Instead, use gentle heat sources. A hair dryer or heating pad are great for gradually thawing a pipe.
If your only option is hot water, soak towels, let them cool slightly, and then wrap them around the frozen pipe. The towel should be comfortable to handle, not boiling hot.
