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As the winter months roll into the Southeast, those unexpected dips in temperature can bring a serious threat to your home: frozen pipes. In our region, where cold snaps can be intense but brief, many homes aren't built with the deep insulation found up North, making them particularly vulnerable. A burst pipe isn't just an inconvenience; it can cause thousands of dollars in water damage and leave you scrambling for repairs.
At Swift Brothers, we understand that keeping your home safe and warm is your top priority. That's why we've put together this essential guide to help you protect your plumbing system before the deep freeze hits. Taking a few proactive steps now can save you major headaches and expense later.
Prepare Your Plumbing System for the Cold
Protecting your pipes starts with a few simple preparation tasks, long before the first frost appears.
Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
The most effective way to prevent freezing is to reduce the pipe's exposure to cold air. Start by insulating pipes located in unheated areas of your home, such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages.
Use Foam Pipe Sleeves: These are inexpensive and easy to install. Simply measure the pipe length, cut the foam to size, and snap it around the exposed section.
Wrap with Heat Tape: For pipes that are extremely exposed or have a history of freezing, use electric heat tape or cables. These devices plug in and gently warm the pipe when the temperature drops, but be sure to follow all manufacturer instructions for safe installation.
Secure Doors and Windows: Check and seal any leaks or cracks around windows and doors in unheated areas to prevent drafts from reaching the pipes. Even a small stream of cold air can be enough to freeze a section of pipe.
When the Temperatures Drop Below Freezing
When the weather forecast calls for sustained temperatures below freezing, usually 32°F (0°C), you need to take active steps to maintain a continuous flow and keep heat circulating.
Open Cabinets and Doors
Pipes under kitchen and bathroom sinks are often located against exterior walls, making them highly susceptible to freezing.
Increase Warm Air Flow: Open the cabinet doors beneath your sinks. This allows warmer air from the heated interior of your home to circulate around the plumbing, keeping the temperature above the freezing point.
Keep the House Warm: Maintain a consistent temperature inside your home, even when you are away. Setting your thermostat no lower than 55°F is a good minimum to protect your plumbing.
Keep Water Dripping
The old saying is true: running water resists freezing better than still water.
Turn on Faucets: When temperatures are expected to plummet overnight, turn on one or two faucets fed by the exposed pipes (especially those on exterior walls) to a slight trickle. A slow, steady drip is all you need to relieve pressure and keep the water moving.
Relieve Pressure: Even if water freezes inside the pipe, the continuous flow relieves the built-up pressure, which is often the cause of a burst pipe, not just the ice itself.
Know What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
Despite your best efforts, sometimes a pipe still freezes. Recognizing the signs and acting quickly is crucial to prevent a full burst.
Identify a Frozen Pipe
The most obvious sign of a frozen pipe is a lack of water coming from a faucet. If you suspect a pipe is frozen, locate the affected section—it may have a light coating of frost or a slight bulge.
Thaw the Pipe Safely
Never use an open flame, propane torch, or anything that could damage the pipe or ignite flammable materials.
Apply Gentle Heat: Use a hairdryer, an electric heating pad, or towels soaked in hot water wrapped around the pipe. Direct the heat toward the section closest to the faucet first, allowing water to flow and melt the ice back toward the blockage.
Keep the Faucet Open: Ensure the faucet is open while you are applying heat so that melted water can escape and thaw the rest of the blockage.
If you cannot locate the frozen section, the blockage is inaccessible, or a pipe has already burst, do not hesitate. Shut off the main water valve immediately to minimize water damage and call the experts at Swift Brothers right away at (919) 750-0506. We are available 24/7 to provide the swift, professional service you need to protect your home and restore your comfort.