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How Do I Keep My Pipes From Bursting in Winter?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Maintain Warmth in Vulnerable Areas

Keep the thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you are away from home. Pay special attention to unheated interior spaces like basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces. Opening cabinet doors under sinks allows warmer room air to circulate around the plumbing. This simple action helps prevent cold spots where pipes can freeze first.

If you have rooms above a garage or in a finished attic, ensure heating vents are open and unblocked. Consider using a space heater as a temporary measure in particularly cold rooms, but always follow the manufacturer's safety instructions. Sealing drafts around windows and doors near plumbing also helps maintain a consistent temperature and protects your pipes.

Insulate Exposed Water Pipes

Identify any pipes running along exterior walls, through unheated spaces, or in outdoor areas. These are the most vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Pipe insulation sleeves, made of foam or fiberglass, are an affordable and effective solution. You can easily install them yourself by sliding the pre-slit tubes over the pipes and sealing the seams with duct tape.

  • Wrap pipes in unheated areas like basements and garages.
  • Use foam or rubber insulation sleeves for indoor pipes.
  • Apply heat tape specifically designed for plumbing to outdoor spigots.
  • Seal gaps where cold air enters near pipes with caulk or spray foam.
  • Don't forget to insulate both hot and cold water lines.
  • Check that insulation is dry and intact before each winter season.

Let Faucets Drip and Prepare Outdoor Lines

On nights when temperatures are predicted to drop well below freezing, let cold water drip slowly from faucets served by exposed pipes. A steady, pencil-thin stream is sufficient. This relieves pressure inside the plumbing system. Even a small flow of water makes it much harder for an ice blockage to form, which is what causes pipes to burst from pressure buildup.

Know How to Respond to a Burst Pipe

If a pipe bursts, your first action must be to stop the water flow. Immediately turn off the main water shutoff valve for your home. Everyone in your household should know where this valve is located, typically where the main water line enters the house. Keep the valve's location written down.

After shutting off the water, electricity in the affected area should be turned off at the breaker box if it's safe to do so. Then, call a qualified plumber to repair the broken pipe. For the resulting water damage, local water damage pros can properly dry the structure and prevent mold. Acting quickly limits the scope of the damage.

Prepare Before Leaving for Extended Periods

If you plan to be away from home during cold weather, take extra precautions. Ask a neighbor or friend to check on your house daily. Leave your heat on and set to at least 55 degrees. You can also shut off your main water valve and drain the system by opening all faucets, which is the most secure method to prevent freezing while away.

Consider having a professional plumber inspect your plumbing and insulation before a long winter absence. They can identify specific vulnerabilities you might miss. Never turn the heat off completely, as interior temperatures can plummet rapidly during a cold snap. A small heating bill is far less expensive than major water damage repairs.

  • Set your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Shut off the main water valve and drain pipes for maximum safety.
  • Ask someone to visually inspect your home every couple of days.
  • Leave contact information with your house sitter in case of emergency.
  • Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to reach under-sink plumbing.
  • Ensure your gutters are clean to prevent ice dams that can lead to leaks.

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Frequently asked questions

At what temperature do pipes typically freeze?

Pipes are at risk of freezing when temperatures stay at or below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, exposed pipes in unheated areas can freeze when outside temperatures drop below freezing for several consecutive hours. Wind chill and poor insulation significantly increase the risk, so it's wise to take precautions before a hard freeze is forecast.

Will my homeowners insurance cover a burst pipe?

Most standard policies cover sudden, accidental water damage from a burst pipe. However, they may not cover damage if it's due to negligence, like failing to maintain heat. You are responsible for the cost of repairing the pipe itself. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy and document all damage thoroughly.

What should I do if my pipes are already frozen?

If you suspect a frozen pipe, turn on the faucet. A small trickle of water suggests a blockage. Keep the faucet open and apply gentle heat to the frozen section with a hair dryer. Never use an open flame. If you cannot thaw it, contact a plumber.

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