How to Help Prevent Frozen and Burst Pipes This Winter
When temperatures plunge, plumbing systems face extra stress from freezing pipes and sudden pressure changes. A single burst pipe can flood rooms, damage finishes, and interrupt daily routines. Proactive winterization greatly lowers the risk of frozen pipes and unexpected plumbing emergencies. This guide outlines practical ways to insulate pipes, keep indoor plumbing warm, and winterize outdoor faucets before the next cold snap arrives.
Insulate the Pipes
Pipes routed through unconditioned areas are the first to freeze, especially during overnight temperature drops. Adding pipe insulation in spaces such as attics, crawl spaces, unfinished basements, and garages helps shield supply lines from cold air. Foam sleeves, fiberglass wrap, or specialized insulating pipe products create a buffer between plumbing and low temperatures.
Focus first on long stretches of exposed pipe near exterior walls, as well as lines serving bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Secure insulation tightly around elbows, valves, and joints, since gaps can allow cold spots that encourage freezing pipes. Households in especially chilly regions sometimes add heat tape along vulnerable runs for added protection. Taking time to insulate pipes now can prevent a mid-winter pipe burst and the repairs that follow.
Keep the Heat on and Open Cabinets
Indoor heat is one of the simplest defenses against frozen pipes. Keeping the thermostat set to a consistent temperature, even at night or when the house is unoccupied for short periods, helps maintain warmth in walls and floors where plumbing runs. Dramatic swings between warm and cold increase the risk that water inside pipes will freeze and expand.
Cabinets beneath kitchen and bathroom sinks can trap cold air against plumbing, especially on exterior walls. Opening these doors during very cold weather allows heated air to circulate around supply lines and drain traps. In some cases, a small fan directed toward an especially cold corner can improve airflow and reduce the chance of a hidden pipe burst inside cabinetry.
Winterize Outdoor Faucets
Exposed exterior fixtures are particularly vulnerable once temperatures drop below freezing. To winterize outdoor faucets, first disconnect garden hoses from every hose bib and drain them completely before storage. Any water left inside a hose can freeze, expand, and push pressure back toward indoor piping.
Next, close the interior shut-off valve that feeds each outdoor spigot, then open the exterior handle to drain remaining water from the line. Leaving this valve slightly open prevents trapped water from building pressure if residual moisture freezes. Installing an insulated cover over every hose bib adds another barrier against cold air. Combined with indoor winterization steps, these measures significantly cut the risk of frozen pipes and costly water damage.
About Arrow Plumbing
Arrow Plumbing is Sugar Land’s go-to resource for top-quality plumbing services. Offering the latest technology, trusted plumbers, a fully-stocked warehouse, and straightforward pricing, it’s easy to see why the Greater Houston area depends on them for all its plumbing needs. Call them today for burst pipe repair in Sugar Land, TX.
