Winter hits Boise hard. Snow piles up, temperatures drop, and frozen pipes become a real threat. When water freezes inside pipes, it expands. This expansion cracks pipes and causes bursts. Burst pipes lead to floods, water damage, and costly repairs. No one wants to deal with this mess during the holidays—or any other time. The good news? You can stop frozen pipes before they happen. In this guide, we explain why pipes freeze and share simple tips to protect your home. Follow these steps, and you’ll stay warm and dry all winter.
Why Pipes Freeze in Cold Weather
Pipes freeze because water turns into ice. Ice takes up more space than water. This extra space creates pressure inside pipes. Too much pressure cracks or bursts them. Pipes in certain spots are more likely to freeze:
- Attics : These spaces are often unheated and poorly insulated.
- Basements : Cold air sinks, making basements colder than other parts of the house.
- Crawl Spaces : These tight areas trap cold air and lack proper insulation.
- Unheated Garages : Pipes here are exposed to freezing temperatures.
Some things make pipes freeze faster:
- Poor Insulation : Bare pipes lose heat quickly. Without insulation, they cool down and freeze.
- Drafts : Cold air sneaks through gaps in windows, doors, and foundations. These drafts lower the temperature around pipes.
- Sudden Temperature Drops : Quick changes catch homeowners off guard. A sudden cold snap can freeze pipes overnight.
Knowing where and why pipes freeze helps you focus your efforts. Protect these areas first. Start by checking your attic, basement, and crawl spaces. Look for exposed pipes and drafty spots. Fix these problems before winter hits.
Prevention Tips for Homeowners
Tip 1: Insulate Pipes
Cover exposed pipes with foam sleeves or heat tape. These materials keep pipes warm. Foam sleeves slide over pipes like a jacket. Heat tape plugs into an outlet and warms pipes directly. Focus on pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces. These areas are colder and need extra protection. Adding insulation is easy. If you’re unsure how to do it, call MyBoisePlumbers. We’ll handle it for you.
Tip 2: Seal Gaps and Cracks
Cold air sneaks into homes through small openings. Check windows, doors, and foundations. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these gaps. Caulk fills cracks and stops drafts. Weatherstripping lines doors and windows to block cold air. Sealing keeps warm air in and cold air out. This step lowers the risk of frozen pipes.
Tip 3: Keep Cabinets Open
Under-sink cabinets block warm air from reaching pipes. On cold nights, leave cabinet doors open. Warm air flows around plumbing and keeps it safe. This trick works wonders. Try it on nights when temperatures drop below freezing.
Tip 4: Drip Faucets Slightly
Let faucets drip just a little. Moving water is harder to freeze. A small drip prevents big problems. It might seem wasteful, but dripping saves you from burst pipes and expensive repairs. Choose faucets connected to exposed pipes. These are the most vulnerable.
Tip 5: Maintain Thermostat Settings
Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature day and night. Lowering it when you’re asleep or away saves money, but it also increases the risk of frozen pipes. Consistent heat keeps your home—and your pipes—safe. Set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature protects pipes without wasting energy.
Tip 6: Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Before winter arrives, disconnect garden hoses. Drain and store them in a shed or garage. Leaving hoses attached lets water sit in pipes. Sitting water freezes and breaks outdoor faucets. Remove hoses and install frost-free faucets if possible. These faucets drain water automatically, reducing the risk of freezing.
Tip 7: Install a Smart Leak Detector
Smart leak detectors alert you to problems early. These devices sense leaks or freezing conditions. They send notifications to your phone. Early warnings give you time to fix issues before they cause major damage. Install detectors near exposed pipes and appliances. This step adds an extra layer of protection.
What to Do If Pipes Freeze
If you think your pipes are frozen, act fast. Here’s what to do:
- Turn Off the Main Water Supply : Stop water from flooding your home if the pipe bursts. Locate your main shut-off valve and turn it clockwise. Test faucets to confirm the water is off.
- Thaw Pipes Safely : Use a hairdryer or space heater to warm the frozen section. Start at the faucet and work your way toward the frozen area. This method pushes melted water out of the pipe. Never use an open flame—it’s dangerous and could start a fire.
- Call a Plumber : If you can’t find the frozen spot or if a pipe bursts, call a professional. Our 24/7 team at MyBoisePlumbers is always ready to help. We arrive quickly, assess the damage, and fix the problem.
Conclusion
Frozen pipes are a serious issue, but you can prevent them. Insulate pipes, seal gaps, keep cabinets open, and follow the other tips in this guide. Take action now to protect your home. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Small steps today save you from big headaches tomorrow.
Stay prepared this winter with help from MyBoisePlumbers. Schedule a seasonal plumbing checkup today. Our team inspects your pipes, identifies weak spots, and makes recommendations. With our help, you’ll enjoy peace of mind all season long. Call us now or visit our website to book an appointment. Your home—and your wallet—will thank you.
