Expose Plumbing If critical water pipes are freezing inside an exterior wall, cut an opening in the wall to expose the pipes to the home's warm air. You can run fiberglass insulation behind the pipes, between the pipes and the home's exterior wall.
Your pipes are at risk of freezing any time temperatures drop below 32°F. However, it's much more common for pipes to freeze when temperatures dip below 20°F. The longer the weather remains below freezing, the more likely it is your pipes can freeze if not properly protected and winterized.
Leave the heating on
If it's feasible, set your thermostat to 15C. This keeps the air inside warm to help stop internal pipes from freezing. Open cabinet doors and loft hatches to allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks or in the loft.
Pipes typically burst when exposed to extremely low temperatures for an extended period of time (anywhere from 1-3 days depending on temperature). This is especially true for pipes located on exterior walls. A frozen pipe is likely to burst when any water or liquid trapped within it freezes and begins to expand.
Your pipes will eventually begin to thaw on their own once the temperatures rise above freezing. As they do so, you may begin to hear your pipes making gurgling, clanging, or banging sounds as the ice begins to move. The hot water heater may do the same.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
Moving water keeps pipes from freezing. Find shut off valves for emergencies. Insulate pipes in unheated areas. Open cupboards and vanities to warm pipes.
Yes, pipes can freeze overnight if temperatures plummet drastically. Uninsulated pipes in unheated areas like attics or exterior walls are most vulnerable.
Seal up any drafts you may have in your home that will allow cold air in to where your pipes are located. Look for drafts around things like electrical wiring, dryer vents, and of course pipes. You can use a variety of materials to keep the drafts out and better insulate your home.
Open a length of pipe insulation along the pre-marked split and slide it onto the pipe. If you have pipes coming up through the loft floor or running along the joists, fold back the loft insulation, fit the pipe tube and then put the insulation back in place. Continue insulating the whole length of the pipe run.
Location in the property: The pipes most likely to freeze are those most exposed to the elements, such as those in unfinished attics, basements, or garages, are at the highest risk of freezing. Drafty areas increase the risk due to wind chill, and pipes in exterior walls close to the cold are often the first to freeze.
Pipes that freeze most frequently are: Pipes that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.
Here's a list of ways to prevent freezing pipes in your home: Keep the thermostat at a minimum of 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure pipes are properly insulated. Keep water slowly flowing on outer wall faucets.
Pipe Guards, Pipe Wrap, Tape, and Stud Guards
Investing in pipe guards can ensure pipe longevity and reduce the need for future repairs.
Even if a pipe does not burst, the expanding ice can still cause damage. This can lead to leaks which can cause significant damage over time if they go unnoticed. The best way to protect against frozen pipes and the resulting water damage is with an automatic water shut-off device.
Due to its potential to overheat and cause a fire, do not use heat tape on pipes behind walls or ceilings. It should only be used for exposed pipes, such as those found in your crawl space or outside your home.
Ask any plumber, "Should I turn off the water if pipes are frozen?" and they'll immediately tell you, "Yes." Locate your main water line and switch the shut-off valve so the flow of water stops. By doing this, you'll reduce the amount of pressure that builds inside your frozen pipes.
Best Pipe Insulation to Prevent Freezing
Fiberglass insulation is ideal for maintaining higher temperatures, while rubber insulation is suited for its moisture and UV resistance, particularly in outdoor settings.
If you have exposed pipes in your basement, garage, or crawl space, you can protect them from freezing by wrapping them in heavy towels to help insulate the pipes. However, for better protection, consider using purpose-made pipe insulation or wrapping pipes with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves.
Overall, it's best that you take heed and drip your faucets when temperatures dip below freezing. A simple trickle of hot and/or cold water—both from faucets inside and outside the home—can prevent you from having to deal with a much larger issue (and bill!) in the long run.
When temperatures plummet, the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting skyrockets—a reality that may end up costing you a lot of time and money. In fact, burst pipes are one of the most common causes of property damage during frigid weather.