Protect Your Home's Pipes During a Winter Freeze

In freezing temperatures, water inside your home’s pipes can freeze and expand, potentially causing the pipes to crack or burst. Frozen pipes are not only a major inconvenience but can also lead to significant water damage and costly repairs. Winter freezes can take you by surprise, even in southern states. Even if icy conditions are rare in your area, it’s important to make sure your home is prepared.
Areas in your home where pipes are prone to freeze
When freezing weather is on its way, be mindful of the areas in your home where pipes are more exposed and vulnerable to freeze. Pipes in unheated and minimally insulated spaces such as basements, crawl spaces, garages, and attics are particularly at risk. Additionally, pipes that run along outside walls are more likely to freeze due to their exposure to cooler air. To protect these areas, consider adding more insulation for the winter. For flood-prone areas like basements and garages, it’s smart to install water leak detection devices in the lowest places. These devices can notify you if a pipe bursts during cold weather, allowing you to quickly minimize any damage.
Preparation is key
Frozen or busted pipes can result in potentially costly water damage or, in extensive cases, structural damage to your home. While you can’t always prevent damage from occurring, there are practical steps you can take to reduce the chances of your pipes freezing.
Cover exposed pipes
Wrapping your pipes with insulation sleeves or heat tape helps maintain a warmer temperature around the pipe, reducing the risk of freezing. Don’t forget about securing your outdoor spigot/hose faucet with a weather cover. If you aren’t sure what materials to use as coverings, a quick online search or visit to your local hardware store can point you in the right direction.
Keep your home consistently heated
Maintaining a steady temperature throughout your home is crucial for protecting your pipes during freezing weather. While it might be tempting to turn off your heating system when you’re at work to save on utility costs, consistent heating can actually be more energy-efficient. It’s recommended to keep your indoor thermostat set above 55-60°F during freezing weather to keep the water in your pipes warm. Other areas in your home that might not be as well insulated like basements and attics should be kept adequately heated during a cold snap to further protect your pipes and plumbing.
Check for exterior cracks or gaps
If you live in a sunny and warm location, the rubber seals around your doorways can often deteriorate due to sun damage, resulting in a dry and cracked seal. In cooler seasons, those cracks and gaps allow cold air to enter your home, lowering the temperature around your pipes and increasing the risk of freezing. If you notice any small openings or holes around your doors, windows, or walls, it’s best to seal them up before freezing temperatures arrive. Consider using weatherstripping for your doors and windows and regularly replace worn-out seals to protect your home from outside temperatures. Avoid applying caulk if the temperature is below 45°F, as the cold air can impact its effectiveness.
Leave your faucets dripping
When ice begins to form inside a pipe, it causes a buildup in water pressure. That pressure is what can cause the pipe to crack or burst. Running water is less likely to freeze than stagnant water. While dripping water helps prevent frozen pipes, the primary benefit of leaving your faucets dripping is to relieve pressure buildup within the pipes.
Turn off your sprinkler system
It’s recommended to turn off your sprinkler system and drain any outdoor hoses before the first hard freeze of the season. If you wait too late to turn off your system, it can permanently damage your valves and pipes and possibly require a full system replacement. It’s best to check your sprinkler system’s user manual for specific directions on how to properly winterize it. Finding a reputable irrigation professional to drain the water from your sprinkler system is the best way to ensure protection.
What to do if your pipes freeze
Thaw the pipes
Signs your pipes might be frozen include restricted water flow, visible frost, and unusual noises coming from your plumbing. To thaw frozen pipes that are accessible, you can use a hair-dryer, heating pad, warm towels, or a space heater. Leave your cabinets open so warm air can reach the pipes under your sinks. For pipes within the wall that you can’t reach, try increasing the heat in your home. If you’re in doubt of what to do, wait and call a professional plumber.
Locate the main water supply
If a pipe in your home bursts, it can cause extensive water damage to your floors and walls, potentially becoming an electrical hazard. To minimize damage, quickly turn off your water after discovering a busted pipe. Your home’s water shut-off valve can likely be found near your main water meter, which is usually in your yard close to the street.
Monitor the area
Keep an eye on pipes that are frozen, even after they thaw out. Frozen pipes are likely to crack from the ice, so monitor the area to make sure there are no water leaks. When water starts flowing normally again, it would be wise to get a water leak detection device that will sound if the pipe is leaking.
The importance of homeowners insurance
Homeowners insurance offers protection against various losses not only during the winter but throughout the entire year. If you have water damage from pipes, it’s best to discuss your policy details and coverages limits with your agent. In the event of a leaking or busted pipe, take photos and videos to document the damage; documentation will be helpful when filing your insurance claim. While taking preventative measures to protect your home is important, having sufficient insurance coverage can help when unexpected losses occur.
Alfa® offers customizable, affordable homeowners insurance plans to ensure your home remains protected year-round. For more information on what homeowners insurance covers, call your local Alfa agent today.
All coverages are subject to deductibles and policy limits. This is not an insurance policy. It is intended only to provide a general description of Alfa Insurance® and/or its product lines and services. An actual policy contains the specific details of the deductibles, coverages, conditions and exclusions. Your Alfa® agent can explain the policy and benefits and answer any questions you may have before you buy.