A frozen pipe is one of those winter problems that can go from annoying to expensive fast. When water freezes it expands, and that pressure can crack a pipe. Then, when it thaws, you’ve got a leak. The good news is that most freezes are preventable. Here’s how to keep pipes from freezing using steps from the American Red Cross.
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Do the prep before the cold snap, not during it.
How to keep pipes from freezing: the short answer
The American Red Cross recommends insulating exposed pipes, disconnecting outdoor hoses, opening cabinet doors so warm air reaches plumbing, letting cold water trickle from faucets served by exposed pipes in very cold weather and keeping the thermostat at a steady temperature day and night. If you’re going away, leave the heat on at no lower than 55°F.
Which pipes are most at risk?
Pipes in unheated spaces freeze first: crawl spaces, attics, garages and basements. Pipes along exterior walls and under kitchen and bathroom sinks on outside walls are also vulnerable. Outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool lines and sprinkler lines are at risk too. Walk around your home and make a quick list.
9 simple steps before a cold snap
- Disconnect hoses. Shut the indoor valve that feeds outdoor faucets and leave the outdoor bib open so water can expand.
- Drain sprinkler and pool lines following the manufacturer’s or installer’s directions.
- Insulate exposed pipes. Foam pipe sleeves are cheap and easy.
- Use UL-listed heat tape on pipes that need extra protection, following the instructions.
- Keep the garage door closed if water lines run through it.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls.
- Let cold water trickle from faucets on exposed pipes during very cold nights.
- Keep the heat steady, even if it means a slightly higher bill.
- Away? Stay at 55°F or above.
Signs a pipe is frozen
The Red Cross says that if you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Frost on a visible pipe or an unusual smell from a drain can also be clues. Check pipes near exterior walls and where your water service enters the house through the foundation.
How to thaw a frozen pipe safely
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Keep the faucet open so water can flow as ice melts | Use a blowtorch or any open flame |
| Apply gentle heat: heating pad, hair dryer or hot towels | Use kerosene, propane or charcoal heaters |
| Use a space heater only away from anything flammable | Leave heaters unattended |
| Keep heating until full water pressure returns | Ignore other faucets; check them too |
Know where your main shutoff is
If a pipe bursts, every minute counts. Find your main water shutoff valve now, when nothing is wrong. It’s often in the basement, a crawl space, a utility room or near the water heater. Make sure everyone in the house knows where it is and that it turns. A smart water leak sensor under sinks or near the water heater can also alert your phone if water appears where it shouldn’t.
Quick FAQ
At what temperature do pipes freeze? Risk rises when outdoor temperatures drop well below freezing, especially for pipes in unheated or exposed spaces.
Does dripping a faucet really help? Yes. The Red Cross says running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.
Should I use antifreeze in pipes? Only if the manufacturer or installer directs it. The Red Cross notes antifreeze is harmful to people, pets and plants.
Keep pipes from freezing: a quick recap
- Outside: disconnect hoses and drain lines.
- Inside: insulate pipes, open cabinets, steady heat.
- Cold nights: let a faucet trickle.
- Away: heat no lower than 55°F.
Final thoughts
A Saturday afternoon is all it takes to keep pipes from freezing all winter. Do the hose bibs and pipe sleeves now, and you’ll sleep better during the first deep freeze. Heading away for the holidays? Pair this with our travel checklist.
Your turn: have you ever dealt with a frozen or burst pipe? Share what happened in the comments. Your story might save someone else a headache.
This guide uses American Red Cross guidance, not our own testing. Call a licensed plumber for burst pipes or anything you’re unsure about.
