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How Do I Prevent Pipes From Freezing This Winter?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes in unheated areas like attics, garages, and crawl spaces freeze first. Wrap them with foam pipe insulation or heat tape. Pay extra attention to pipes near exterior walls, where cold air can reach them easily.

Check for gaps around pipe entry points and seal them with caulk or spray foam. Even in mild climates, winter nights can dip below freezing, so some protection is needed. Insulation is a simple, low-cost step that reduces the risk of a burst pipe.

Keep Faucets Dripping

When temperatures drop, let cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Moving water is less likely to freeze. A slow drip is enough, and it costs little compared to a pipe repair.

Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warmer air circulate around pipes. This works well in kitchens and bathrooms. If you plan to be away, set the thermostat no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit and ask someone to check your home.

  • Drip both hot and cold faucets if both pipes run through cold areas
  • Focus on faucets on exterior walls
  • Keep cabinet doors open during freezing nights
  • Let the drip run until temperatures rise above freezing
  • Consider a smart thermostat to monitor indoor temperature remotely

Drain Outdoor Lines

Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor water valves. Drain any remaining water from the lines. This prevents ice from forming and cracking the pipes or the valve itself.

If your home has a sprinkler system, follow the manufacturer's instructions to blow out the lines before winter. For pool or irrigation lines, a local plumber can help. Taking these steps now saves you from a messy cleanup later.

Know Your Shutoff Valve

Find your main water shutoff valve and make sure it works. If a pipe bursts, you need to turn off the water quickly to limit flooding. Write down the location and keep it visible, like on a tag near the valve.

If you live in Fresno, keep the shutoff valve location written down in a place you can find fast. Practice turning it off once so you know how. This simple step can save your floors, walls, and belongings from serious water damage.

What to Do If a Pipe Bursts

If a pipe bursts, shut off the main water valve right away. Then open a faucet to drain remaining water and reduce pressure. Move valuables out of the way and start removing standing water with towels or a wet vacuum.

Call local water damage pros for help with drying and repairs. They can handle the cleanup and assess damage to drywall, flooring, and ceilings. Acting quickly helps prevent mold and structural issues. Keep your insurance policy handy and check what it covers.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

  • Shut off water at the main valve
  • Open a nearby faucet to relieve pressure
  • Turn off electricity in affected areas if safe
  • Remove soaked items and start drying
  • Take photos of damage for your records
  • Call the pros for thorough drying and repair

Need help right now?

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

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Frequently asked questions

At what temperature should I drip my faucets?

Start dripping faucets when the temperature is expected to drop to 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below, especially if pipes run through unheated spaces. A slow drip is enough. Keep it going until temperatures rise above freezing to be safe.

Can I use towels to protect pipes from freezing?

Towels offer little insulation against freezing. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape instead. If you have no other option, wrapping towels around pipes may help slightly, but it is not reliable. Focus on sealing drafts and keeping indoor areas warm.

What should I do if my pipes freeze but don't burst?

Turn on the faucet and apply gentle heat with a hair dryer or space heater. Never use an open flame. Start near the faucet and work toward the frozen area. If water does not flow, call a plumber. Once thawed, check for leaks.

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