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How Do I Prevent Pipes From Freezing in Winter?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Insulate Vulnerable Pipes

Pipe insulation sleeves or foam are the first line of defense. Focus on plumbing in unheated spaces like basements, attics, and garages. Even a small gap in insulation can leave a pipe exposed to freezing temperatures. Cover all accessible pipes, and pay special attention to sections near exterior walls or vents.

For added protection in very cold weather, you can use thermostatically controlled heat tape on pipes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid a fire hazard. Remember that insulation alone may not be enough during a deep freeze. Combining insulation with other methods provides the best results.

Maintain Heat and Airflow

Keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you are away from home. This consistent temperature helps prevent freezing inside walls. Never turn the heat off completely during winter months, as interior temperatures can plummet faster than you expect. A small heating bill is far less costly than water damage repair.

Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air from the room reach the pipes. This is especially important for plumbing on exterior walls. If you have a vacation home, draining the water system is a more reliable step. For everyday living, maintaining airflow is a simple and effective habit.

Let Faucets Drip Strategically

A slow drip from faucets connected to vulnerable pipes relieves pressure inside the plumbing. Moving water is much harder to freeze. During a cold snap, open both hot and cold handles slightly to allow a thin stream. This tactic is most useful for pipes running through exterior walls or unheated crawlspaces.

The goal is not a wasteful flow but a steady drip. This small action can prevent a pipe from bursting by giving expanding ice a place to go. Focus on faucets farthest from where water enters your home. If you live in Germantown, this practice is wise during prolonged cold spells.

Seal Home Drafts and Leaks

Cold air entering your home can freeze pipes even in heated areas. Check for drafts around windows, doors, and where pipes enter the house. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these gaps. Pay close attention to the foundation and areas where electrical wiring or dryer vents create openings.

An often overlooked spot is the crawlspace vent. In winter, you can close foundation vents with covers designed for this purpose. This helps keep the under-house area warmer. Sealing drafts not only protects pipes but also improves your home's overall energy efficiency during the cool winters.

  • Caulk gaps around window and door frames.
  • Seal openings where pipes, wires, or cables enter walls.
  • Install foam gaskets behind electrical outlet plates on exterior walls.
  • Ensure your attic access hatch is properly insulated and sealed.
  • Use draft stoppers at the bottom of exterior doors.
  • Consider insulating your garage door if it houses plumbing.

Prepare Before a Deep Freeze

Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, and close the interior shutoff valves for outdoor faucets. Open the outdoor spigot to drain any remaining water. If you have a swimming pool or sprinkler system, follow the manufacturer's winterization instructions. These steps prevent water from being trapped in lines that are exposed to freezing air.

Know exactly where your main water shutoff valve is located and ensure it works. If a pipe does burst, shutting off the water immediately limits the damage. Keep the path to the valve clear. Write down the location, or mark it with a tag, so anyone in the home can find it quickly.

Water damage does not wait

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

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Frequently asked questions

What temperature should I keep my house to prevent frozen pipes?

Set your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you are away. This provides a safety margin for pipes inside exterior walls. Interior temperatures can drop much lower than the thermostat setting in unused rooms. Consistency is more important than the exact number.

What should I do if a pipe freezes but hasn't burst?

Turn on the faucet to see if any water flows. Gently warm the frozen section with a hair dryer or heating pad, starting near the faucet. Never use an open flame. If you cannot thaw it or locate the freeze, call a plumber to prevent the pipe from bursting.

If a pipe bursts, who should I call first?

Turn off the main water supply immediately to stop the flow. Then, call a plumber for the pipe repair. For the resulting water damage, local water damage pros can handle the cleanup and drying. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Contact your insurance company to report the claim.

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