Guides / How to Prevent Frozen Pipes (and What to Do if They Freeze)

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes (and What to Do if They Freeze)

Burst pipes are among the most expensive routine disasters in US homes, and almost every one is preventable with an hour of preparation before the first hard freeze.

1. Before winter: protect the vulnerable runs

Insulate pipes in unheated spaces (crawlspaces, garages, exterior walls), disconnect hoses, and shut off + drain exterior faucet lines that aren't frost-free.

2. During a hard freeze

Drip both hot and cold taps on exterior walls, open cabinet doors under sinks, keep the thermostat at 55°F+ even when away, and keep garage doors closed.

3. If a pipe freezes

Open the tap, warm the pipe from the tap side toward the frozen section with a hair dryer or heat lamp — never a torch. If you can't locate the freeze, that's a pro call.

4. If a pipe bursts

Main shutoff first — every adult in the house should know where it is before winter. Then water damage triage and a plumber; photograph everything for insurance.

Common questions

At what temperature do pipes freeze?Risk starts in earnest when temperatures drop to around 20°F (-6°C) or below for several hours, sooner for uninsulated pipes in wind-exposed spaces.

Do smart leak sensors help?Cheap water sensors near the water heater, washer, and under sinks give the early warning that turns a disaster into a mop-up.

Part of the complete home maintenance schedule.

Track this in HOGER — your home's verified service ledger