Essential Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes and Safeguard Your Home

When temperatures drop, frozen pipes become one of the most common — and expensive — plumbing emergencies homeowners face. What many people don’t realize is that the damage often isn’t visible until it’s already severe.

At Awesome Drain Cleaning & Waterline Repair LLC, we regularly see frozen pipe damage that requires cutting into floors, walls, or concrete to locate and repair broken water lines. Understanding how frozen pipes happen — and how to prevent them — can save you thousands.

Insulated water pipe in a basement, protecting against freezing

Why Do Pipes Freeze?

Water expands as it freezes. When water inside a pipe freezes, pressure builds up inside the line until the pipe cracks or bursts. This can happen in:

• Exposed pipes

• Pipes inside exterior walls

• Crawl spaces and basements

• Garages

• Slab foundations

  
  

Once the pipe thaws, water begins flowing again — often flooding floors, walls, or foundations.

Why Frozen Pipe Repairs Can Be Costly

Many frozen pipe repairs are not simple fixes.

In some cases, our team must:

• Cut into flooring or concrete

• Remove damaged pipe sections

• Replace water lines

• Restore proper connections

• Test the system to ensure no additional leaks exist

This process takes time, skill, and precision. Temporary patches or shortcuts almost always fail and lead to repeat damage.

How to Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

1. Insulate Vulnerable Pipes

Use pipe insulation or heat tape on exposed pipes, especially in crawl spaces, basements, and garages.

2. Keep the Heat On

Even if you’re away, keep your thermostat set no lower than 55°F. Turning the heat off can lead to frozen pipes fast.

3. Let Faucets Drip

Allowing a slow drip during extreme cold helps relieve pressure and keeps water moving through the line.

4. Open Cabinet Doors

Opening kitchen or bathroom cabinets allows warm air to circulate around plumbing under sinks.

5. Seal Drafts

Seal cracks around windows, doors, and foundation penetrations where cold air can reach pipes.

6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Disconnect hoses and shut off exterior water lines before freezing temperatures arrive.

What to Do If You Suspect a Frozen Pipe

If you notice reduced water flow, frost on pipes, or unusual sounds:

1. Shut off the main water supply if possible

2. Do not use open flames to thaw pipes

3. Call a professional plumber immediately

   
   

Waiting can turn a frozen pipe into a burst pipe — and a small issue into major water damage.

Don’t Wait for a Freeze to Become a Flood

Frozen pipe damage often happens quickly and out of sight. Taking preventative steps now can save you time, stress, and costly repairs later.

If you’re concerned about vulnerable water lines or want to schedule an inspection, Awesome Drain Cleaning & Waterline Repair LLC is here to help.

✔ Veteran-Owned

✔ Experienced professionals

✔ Long-term solutions — not temporary fixes

Monitor Weather and Stay Alert

Stay informed about upcoming cold weather forecasts. When temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, take extra precautions such as increasing your home’s heating or letting faucets drip.

If you plan to be away during winter, ask a neighbor or friend to check your home regularly. They can spot early signs of frozen pipes or leaks and take action if needed.

Frozen pipes can cause major headaches, but with the right preparation and care, you can protect your home and avoid costly repairs. Keep your home warm, insulate pipes, seal drafts, and stay alert to weather changes. Taking these steps will help you maintain a safe and comfortable home all winter long. If you ever face a frozen or burst pipe, act quickly to shut off water and seek professional help.