Paul Dreher Director of Personal Insurance View Bio

If you turn on your faucet and no water or only a trickle comes out, your pipes may be frozen.

Frozen pipes can cause property damage from bursting, flooding and the potential for a disruption in water supply.

Generally, pipes that are exposed to frigid outdoor temperatures freeze more readily—such as hose bibs, swimming pool lines, and water sprinkler lines. Pipes that run along exterior walls in your home with minimal insulation also tend to freeze more easily.

Ways to keep your pipes from freezing when temperatures drop:

  • Insulate pipes in unheated interior areas, such as crawl spaces and attics.
  • Wrap pipes in heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables.
  • Open cabinet doors to expose pipes to warm air.
  • Seal any leaks with caulk or insulation.
  • Disconnect outdoor items such as hoses and faucets. Shut off these items completely using an indoor valve and allow the excess water to drain out.
  • Trickle a little water out of your faucets periodically to keep water moving within the pipes.
  • Keep your garage door closed if there is a water supply in there.
  • Keep your thermostat set at the same temperature during the day and night.
  • Do not set your thermostat lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit when going on vacation. Ask someone to periodically check the temperature in your home while you are away

How to Respond to Frozen Pipes

Turn off the main water valve and keep the faucet on. Apply heat to the pipe by using an electric heating pad, hair dryer or portable space heater, or by wrapping the pipe in towels soaked in hot water.
You should apply heat until you regain water pressure. If this does not solve the problem, contact a licensed plumber to inspect your pipes.