How to Prevent Pipe Bursting and Costly Damage in Freezing Weather

If temperatures drop below freezing, home plumbing is considered one of the most susceptible areas of a house, as reported by plumbers.

A single leaking pipe can spill numerous gallons of water within a short time, causing costly fixes and significant water damage. Experts in plumbing state that many of these situations can be avoided through simple preparation and understanding how to act swiftly.

Here are some steps that homeowners in North Texas can take to safeguard their properties.

Why do pipes rupture in cold weather?

Pipes typically do not break simply because water turns to ice. The actual risk occurs when frozen water obstructs the pipe, causing pressure to accumulate behind it.

“Whenever there is a connection to it, it stops it from being able to drain,” Anthony Ladd with Baker Brothers Plumbinginformed CBS News Texas last yearThat part couldn’t drain, so it burst.

Plumbers note that outdoor faucets, hoses that remain attached, and pipes located along exterior walls are particularly vulnerable.

How to prepare your house for winter and prevent frozen pipes

Turn off hoses and cover outdoor spigots. Outdoor spigots are often the main source of problems when freezing weather occurs. Experts suggest taking hoses off entirely to allow any remaining water to drain out.

After disconnecting the hoses, place insulated faucet covers over the outdoor spigots.

“That minor action could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars,” Clayton Robinson, co-owner of CR Plumbing, said to CBS News Texas duringlast year’s winter stormOnce water damage occurs, expenses can accumulate rapidly.

• Leaky faucets when temperatures decrease

Letting faucets trickle gently helps maintain water flow in the pipes, which minimizes the risk of freezing. Experts advise this practice for both hot and cold water lines, particularly for fixtures located near outside walls.

“When temperatures drop below freezing, that gradual flow can have a significant impact,” Robinson stated.

• Insulate exposed pipes

Piping located in garages, crawl areas, attics, and beneath sinks close to exterior walls should be covered with insulation or pipe covers. Retailers that sell hardware frequently experience an increase in interest for these materials when colder temperatures begin.

Staff members at Park Row Ace Hardware mentioned that last year, faucet covers and pipe insulation are usually the first products to be sold out when cold weather is anticipated.

“It’s advisable to prepare before the cold weather arrives,” employee Michael Tatum stated.

• Know the location of your primary water shut-off valve

Pipefitters state that this step is essential and frequently neglected.

Your main water valve stops the flow of water to the whole house,” Ladd explained. “It might be located in the laundry room, the garage, or even outside near a garden. It’s crucial to know its location and ensure it’s functional.

The ability to turn off the water promptly can greatly reduce harm in case of a pipe rupture.

What to do when your pipes become frozen

If you think a pipe is frozen:

• Activate the faucet linked to that pipe

• Use a hair dryer or portable heater to apply light warmth

• Avoid using an open fire

A sudden decrease in water pressure or the appearance of frost on pipes may indicate potential issues.

What steps to take if a pipe breaks

Indications of a leaking pipe may consist of water accumulation, moist walls or ceilings, or the noise of flowing water even when no appliances are in use.

If this happens:

1. Turn off the primary water source right away

2. Shut off power in the affected regions if it is safe to do so

3. Contact a certified plumber immediately

Be mindful of any indications of water inside or outside,” Robinson stated. “The quicker we arrive, the higher our likelihood of minimizing the damage.

Plumbers report that service requests rise significantly in freezing conditions, and delays may lead to more severe issues. Basic preventive measures such as disconnecting garden hoses, covering taps, insulating pipes, and understanding how to turn off the water supply can enable homeowners to prevent emergencies completely.

Spending time on preparations before the temperature decreases can make the difference between a small hassle and significant, expensive damage.

Plumbers recommend that residents get ready in advance

Local plumbers are preparing for an expected increase in urgent service requests as temperatures drop.

It’s going to be hectic,” remarked David Crow, president of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. “We anticipate a large number of inquiries.

Crow mentioned that the same problems arise each winter when residents are exposed to frigid conditions.

Customers contact us in a state of emergency because they weren’t prepared and don’t know how to shut off the water,” he said. “Our team is currently dealing with water up to their ankles, with items drifting past them.

In preparation, his team is gathering supplies before the cold weather arrives and getting ready to work extended hours.

Broken pipes can quickly lead to serious water damage, but Crow mentioned that making a few simple preparations now can greatly lower the chances.

“It’s the moment to get ready,” he stated.

Having decades of expertise, David Butler, the Licensed Master Plumber at Milestone Electric, A/C, & Plumbing, warns that frozen pipes are the worst scenario when temperatures decrease.

“If your pipe bursts and causes flooding throughout the house, you’re looking at a cost between $20,000 and $30,000, maybe even more,” he said.

When it comes to the inside of your house, there are several methods to safeguard your pipes.

Begin by opening the cabinet doors,” Butler stated. “This enables the heat from the room to reach the pipes.

Within the house, it’s recommended to let faucets trickle to ensure water continues to flow through the pipes.

“Combine hot and cold water, and you can simply let it flow, I mean, you can reduce it to a drip,” he said.

We want the hot and cold water to be running simultaneously,” said Butler. “You can’t let the outdoor faucet drip, only the indoor faucets.

Outside, property owners need to remove all hoses from outdoor spigots and cover the fixtures with insulation.

“You can make it elegant with a cover, or simply use a towel and a cup on top,” Crow said.

Butler advises that if you own a pool, you should operate the pump continuously throughout the day.

For individuals who decide to completely turn off their water supply for added safety, Crow emphasized the importance of knowing the location of the main shutoff valve.

In numerous homes across North Texas, it may be located in a container next to the street, usually on either the left or right side of the residence.

If the water supply is turned off, the pipes need to be completely emptied by flushing toilets and opening faucets.

As the severe cold arrives, Crow cautioned that delaying action might lead to high costs.

“The number of people who watch this and take no action will result in the panic calls we receive,” he said.

Milestone Electric, A/C, and Plumbing HVAC Technician John Lyzenga advises to ensure you have clean air filters and maintain open vents.

“Furnaces and heaters in Texas aren’t frequently used, so this is going to be a test for many people’s heating systems,” he said.

If your heating system stops functioning, you can switch it off, allow it to cool, and then attempt to restart it. If it continues to malfunction, contact an expert.

Lyzenga remarks, unfortunately, that if you lose authority, there’s not much you can accomplish.

“If the temperature in your home becomes hazardous, exit your house and go to a place with heat and electricity,” Lyzenga stated.

He is wishing for the best outcome but emphasizes the significance of being ready for the worst.