The short answer
Insulate Pipes in Vulnerable Spots
Pipes in unheated areas like attics, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls are the most likely to freeze. Wrap them with foam pipe insulation or heat tape, especially near gaps where cold air can reach them. Pay attention to elbows and joints where ice tends to form first.
Check for drafts around windows, vents, and foundation openings. Seal any cracks or holes with caulk or spray foam. Even a small gap can let freezing air hit a pipe directly. If you have exposed pipes in a crawl space, consider adding insulation to the floor above as well.
Keep Your Home Warm Enough
Set your thermostat to at least 55F, even when you are away. A colder house increases the risk of pipes freezing in walls and under cabinets. Keep garage doors closed if water lines run through the garage, and open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around the pipes.
If you leave for several days, do not turn the heat off completely. Instead, lower the temperature but keep it above the minimum. Also, ask someone to check your home during extreme cold, or at least run water periodically to keep it moving. A small trickle can make a big difference.
- Keep thermostat at 55F or higher
- Open cabinet doors under sinks on cold nights
- Close garage doors if pipes run through the garage
- Seal gaps around pipes with caulk or foam
- Drain and disconnect outdoor hoses before winter
- Shut off and drain outdoor spigots if possible
Let Faucets Drip During Freezes
When temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, let a few faucets drip slowly. Running water is less likely to freeze because it keeps moving through the pipes. Focus on faucets that are farthest from your main water line, as they tend to have slower flow.
A drip does not waste much water, and it can save you from a major cleanup. You can also open the faucet slightly to relieve pressure in the system. If a pipe does freeze, the open faucet gives the ice room to expand without bursting the pipe.
Know Your Shutoff Valve Location
Find your main water shutoff valve before an emergency happens. It is often near the water meter, in a crawl space, or on an exterior wall. Write down the location and make sure everyone in your home knows how to turn it off. If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water quickly limits damage.
Also locate shutoff valves for individual fixtures like sinks, toilets, and washing machines. These smaller valves can stop water to just one area. Practice turning them off and on so you are comfortable doing it under stress. This simple step can save you from extensive water damage.
Keep your shutoff valve location written down and visible. Acting quickly can limit the impact of a burst pipe.
Prepare for Cold Weather in Warm Climates
Even in a humid subtropical climate, a rare freeze can catch you off guard. The region's hot, rainy summers mean many homes are not built for freezing temperatures. That makes prevention extra important because pipes may lack insulation.
Before a cold snap, drain irrigation systems and pool lines. Disconnect garden hoses and store them inside. If you have a sprinkler system, have a plumber blow out the lines if you are unsure how. Also, consider installing insulated covers on exterior spigots.
If a pipe does burst, turn off the water and call local water damage pros. They can handle the cleanup and drying. While you wait, move valuables away from the leak and open windows to help dry the area if it is safe.
- Drain irrigation and sprinkler lines before winter
- Disconnect and store garden hoses
- Install insulated covers on outdoor spigots
- Insulate pipes in attics and crawl spaces
- Keep cabinet doors open during freezing nights
- Know how to shut off the main water valve
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
What temperature should I keep my house to prevent pipes from bursting?
Keep your thermostat at least 55F, even when you are away. This prevents most indoor pipes from freezing. In extreme cold, you might need to set it higher, especially if your home is poorly insulated. A small investment in heating can save you from a major repair.
How do I thaw a frozen pipe safely?
First, turn off the main water valve and open a faucet to relieve pressure. Then apply gentle heat with a hair dryer, heat lamp, or warm towels. Never use an open flame. Start near the faucet and work toward the frozen section. If you cannot find the blockage, call a plumber.
What should I do if a pipe bursts in my home?
Shut off the main water valve immediately to stop the flow. Then call local water damage pros to handle cleanup and drying. Move furniture and valuables away from the water. Take photos for your insurance records. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.