7 Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes

As the nights grow colder and temperatures start to dip below freezing, it’s important to take steps now to prevent frozen pipes. Repairing frozen pipes can be costly, so let’s explore a few practical tips to keep your plumbing safe and your home protected all winter long.

1. Maintain a Consistent Temperature

- Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature both day and night, especially during cold spells. It’s tempting to lower the heat at night, but sudden temperature drops can increase the risk of pipes freezing. A steady temperature, ideally no lower than 55°F (13°C), helps keep all areas of your home, including unheated spaces, warm enough to prevent freezing.

2. Add Pipe Insulation in Cold Areas

- Insulating pipes in areas prone to cold—like basements, attics, crawl spaces, and near exterior walls—adds a layer of protection. Foam pipe insulation or heat tape works well and is relatively easy to install. Heat tape, which provides a small amount of heat directly to the pipes, is especially effective for pipes in unheated areas.

3. Seal Gaps and Cracks Around Pipes

- Cold air can seep into your home through small gaps and cracks around where pipes enter the home, particularly on exterior walls or near crawl spaces. Use caulk or spray foam to seal these openings and prevent drafts from lowering the temperature around your pipes.

4. Close Garage Doors and Other Exterior Access Points

- If you have water supply lines running through the garage, make sure to keep the garage doors closed during extremely cold weather. Similarly, close any other exterior doors, vents, or crawl space access points to prevent cold air from entering and affecting the pipes.

5. Keep Interior Doors Open

- Allow warm air to circulate by keeping interior doors open, especially those to rooms with plumbing fixtures, like bathrooms, laundry rooms, and utility rooms. This lets heated air reach areas that might otherwise stay colder.

6. Consider Installing a Circulating Pump for Cold Areas

- If you have an area of the home that stays particularly cold and contains plumbing, consider installing a hot water circulating pump. These pumps keep a small flow of warm water moving through the pipes, which can prevent freezing even in very low temperatures.

7. Add a Space Heater in Vulnerable Areas

- If you have pipes in an area that gets particularly cold, such as a basement or crawl space, you can use a space heater to add extra warmth. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines, keeping heaters away from flammable materials and not leaving them unattended.

These measures can be more practical than leaving faucets dripping or opening cabinets, especially if you prefer not to disrupt your normal routines. They help ensure that the pipes stay warm enough to prevent freezing while maintaining a comfortable and consistent indoor environment.