Frozen pipes are among the most frustrating—and expensive—surprises a homeowner can face. The good news is that with a bit of preparation, they’re largely preventable. Losing water access or dealing with damage to your home is the last thing anyone wants in the middle of winter. Understanding why pipes freeze—and how to prevent it—can help protect your home, your comfort, and your wallet.
Why Pipes Freeze
Pipes freeze when the temperature around them drops low enough for the water inside to turn to ice. As water freezes, it expands, placing intense pressure on pipe walls and often leading to cracks or bursts.
In many cases, frozen pipes show warning signs before becoming a major problem. You may notice:
- Little or no water coming from faucets
- Bulging or swollen pipes
- Frost forming on or around pipes
- Unexplained odors coming from drains or sinks
Recognizing these signs early can help prevent serious damage.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of frozen pipes:
- Maintain consistent thermostat settings, even when you’re away from home.
- Let faucets drip when you’re not home and run them occasionally when you are—moving water is less likely to freeze.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
- Disconnect outdoor hoses before a cold snap and cover exterior spigots to protect them from freezing temperatures.
- Insulate exposed pipes, especially those in unheated or poorly insulated areas like attics or basements.
- Seal drafts around windows, doors, and your home or business’s foundation to keep cold air out.
- Schedule regular heating system maintenance with a licensed HVAC technician to ensure reliable performance all winter long.
Get Expert Help
For more information, contact the Pierce Refrigeration team, and one of our experts will guide you in finding your solution.
Need 24/7 emergency service? Looking for advice on improving your everyday air quality and comfort at home and work? Contact the friendly staff at Pierce Refrigeration at 800-696-1088 or email us at: info@piercerefrig.com.