How to make sure your pipes don't freeze?

Author: Gilbert Wintheiser  |  Last update: Thursday, August 7, 2025

When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.

How can I keep my pipes from freezing?

Prevent Frozen Pipes
  1. Set home thermostats above 55 degrees during cold weather.
  2. Drip cold water in farthest faucet from your main valve. ...
  3. Find shut off valves for emergencies.
  4. Insulate pipes in unheated areas.
  5. Open cupboards and vanities to warm pipes.
  6. Close inside valves that control the water supply.

At what temperature will pipes freeze?

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.

Can your pipes freeze in one night?

Yes, pipes can freeze overnight if temperatures plummet drastically. Uninsulated pipes in unheated areas like attics or exterior walls are most vulnerable.

How do I set my heat so the pipes don't freeze?

Keep the thermostat at a minimum of 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure pipes are properly insulated. Keep water slowly flowing on outer wall faucets. Cover outside faucets.

Expert tips on how to make sure your pipes don't freeze during winter weather

Will my pipes freeze if my heat is on 65?

Don't turn your thermostat down below 65 degrees during extreme cold. Further drops in temperature could be enough to cause a problem, especially inside walls where pipes are located. Your heating bill may go up a little, but that's better than an expensive repair job if a pipe freezes and bursts.

Does running a dishwasher keep pipes from freezing?

Some models have a timer to schedule run times. Some automatic dishwashers have settings to schedule loads. Consider waiting to wash dishes until late into the night. A small and steady stream of water will be enough to keep your pipes from freezing, and you can even collect the water in a bucket to water houseplants.

Where do pipes freeze first?

Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.

Can pipes freeze but not bust?

Not all frozen pipes burst. However, thawing the ice can increase the risk, as it usually worsens the problem since it raises the pressure further.

Should you drip all your faucets?

Set faucets to a small, steady drip rather than a stream to conserve water while preventing freezing. Drip the faucet farthest from your home's main water valve. “You don't have to drip them all—one or two is fine,” Sperlich told USA TODAY.

How do I know if my pipes are at risk of freezing?

Pipes in unheated areas such as unfinished basements, crawl spaces, attics and garages are particularly susceptible to freezing. Check in these areas for leaks and pooled water. Any exposed pipes that have frost, condensation or bulging sections are likely frozen.

How to winterize your pipes?

Tips for Winterizing Your Plumbing
  1. Know where your main water shut-off valve is before problems arise. ...
  2. Pipe insulation provides your first line of defense against cold temperatures and frozen pipes. ...
  3. Disconnect and store garden hoses. ...
  4. Turn off and drain sprinkler systems. ...
  5. Keep out the cold. ...
  6. Seal air leaks.

Which house pipes most likely to freeze?

Pipes That Freeze Frequently
  • Outdoor Water Lines.
  • Basement Pipes.
  • Attic Plumbing.
  • Pipes In Your Garage.
  • Kitchen Cabinet Piping.
  • Exterior Wall Pipes.

How do I winterize my home?

9 tips for winterizing a house
  1. Prevent ice dams by inspecting your roof and attic. ...
  2. Insulate pipes. ...
  3. Insulate your attic. ...
  4. Weather-strip and insulate the doors and windows to seal air leaks. ...
  5. Inspect the furnace and chimney. ...
  6. Protect your deck and patio. ...
  7. Clean out your gutters. ...
  8. Purchase winter supplies.

Should I turn off water if pipes are frozen?

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.

How likely will frozen pipes burst?

Although common, frozen pipes do not always burst. However, the ice can increase this risk when it thaws and is usually worsened as it raises pressure further which makes pipe bursting common near winter's end or springtime. Furthermore, the more water flowing through the pipe, the greater chance of rupture.

Will pipes naturally unfreeze?

Make sure to keep heaters away from anything potentially flammable! Your pipes will eventually begin to thaw on their own once the temperatures rise above freezing.

How to find where your pipes are frozen?

Turn on all faucets: Checking each faucet in your home will help you narrow down your search. The faucets that have little or no water pressure likely have a frozen pipe in their supply line. If every faucet is showing low water pressure, the frozen pipe may be near the water meter.

How long can pipes stay frozen without bursting?

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.

How to keep water from freezing?

Here are some things you can do: ✔️ Regularly refill with warm water. ✔️ Add a pinch of sugar to prevent freezing. ✔️ Place the bowl in sunlight, shielded from wind. ✔️ Use hand warmers or microwavable pads underneath.

How warm should you keep your house to prevent pipes from freezing?

But while a lower temperature may reduce your heating bill, it could mean disaster if a cold temperatures hit, and your pipes freeze and burst. This doesn't mean you have to keep your house as warm as normal — any temperature 55 degrees or higher is appropriate to keep your pipes safe.

How can I stop my water pipes from freezing?

Insulating your pipes and water tanks is one of the best ways to prevent them from freezing. You can buy inexpensive pipe lagging and tank jackets from most DIY stores and fit them yourself for free. Just make sure you check the pipe and tank measurements first.

Do you run hot or cold water when it freezes?

Cold Weather Precautions
  1. It's important to remember that both hot and cold water pipes may freeze. ...
  2. Let the water run — Leaving a small but steady stream of lukewarm water running will keep the water moving through the pipes.

Does letting the water run keep pipes from freezing?

It's not that a small flow of water prevents freezing; this helps, but water can freeze even with a slow flow. The running water will allow relief from building pressure in the pipes so they do not burst.

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