Why Pipes Freeze And How Freezing And Bursting Occurs
Water expands as it freezes and creates pressure inside pipes.
That pressure can crack or burst pipes, causing costly water damage.
Even a small ice blockage can cause a sudden pressure increase and a leak.
Recognizing Cold Enough To Freeze Pipes On Exterior Walls And In Attics
Pipes in exterior walls, attics, and unheated spaces are at highest risk.
When outdoor temperatures drop below freezing for several hours, pipes can freeze.
Watch for sudden drops in indoor water pressure or icy pipes as warning signs.
Key Plumbing Components At Risk: Taps, Valves, Water Pipes And Water Supply Lines
Outdoor faucets, hose bibs, and shutoff valves often sit exposed to cold.
Service lines and supply pipes running along foundations are vulnerable too.
Hot and cold water pipes inside unheated walls can also freeze unexpectedly.
Vulnerable Locations: Basements, Crawl Spaces, Garages And Exterior Water Lines
Basements and crawl spaces without insulation let cold air reach pipes quickly.
Garage walls and exterior water lines can be exposed to sustained freezing temperatures.
Identify these areas early to prioritize protection and reduce freeze risk.
Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing With Insulation, Thermal Wraps And Heat Tape
Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves or fiberglass wrap rated for plumbing use.
Use heat tape or electric warming cables where freezing risk is high.
Follow manufacturer instructions and never overlap heat tape or use damaged products.
Protecting Water Supply Lines In Concrete, During Excavation, And On Foundations
During installation, bury water lines below the frost line for long-term protection.
Add 4–6 inches of sand bedding and insulation where lines meet foundations.
Eger Excavating can design and install protected service lines with proper depth and backfill.
Simple In-Home Steps: Keep Heat On, Set The Thermostat, Seal Drafts And Open Cabinets
Keep your heat on and set the thermostat no lower than 55°F when away.
Seal drafts around windows and doors to reduce cold air reaching plumbing.
Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around water pipes.
Faucets, Water Drip And Running Water Strategies To Prevent Freezing Pipes
Let a small cold-water drip run from faucets served by exposed pipes.
A slow, steady drip relieves pressure and helps prevent freezing and bursting.
For best results, run the faucet furthest from the water meter and main shutoff.
When To Turn Off The Water And Shut Valves Before A Freeze
Shut off and drain exterior water lines and sprinkler systems before sustained freezing begins.
Turn off the main water valve and drain pipes if you will be away for weeks.
Label valves and keep a simple shutoff checklist near the meter for quick action.
Dealing With Thawing: How To Thaw Frozen Pipes Safely Without A Blowtorch
Locate the frozen section by feeling for cold, bulging, or frosty pipe along runs.
Open the faucet served by the frozen pipe to allow melting water to escape.
Apply gentle, even heat using safe tools listed below until water flows freely.
Using A Hair Dryer, Space Heater Or Hot Water Heating To Thaw Frozen Lines Safely
Use a hair dryer, heat gun on low, or an electric space heater placed safely nearby.
Wrap towels soaked in hot water around the frozen section for gradual thawing.
Never use open flames, propane heaters, or blowtorches near plumbing or insulation.
Avoiding Hazards: Combustible Heat Sources, Kerosene, Open Flames And Blowtorches
Open flames and propane devices can ignite insulation or vapor from plumbing chemicals.
Avoid placing heaters on wet surfaces or near flammable materials and plastics.
Choose electric appliances with automatic shutoff and keep them supervised while in use.
Addressing Pressure Build Up And Preventing Leaks Or Bursting After A Freeze
After thawing, slowly open faucets and check for steady water flow and normal pressure.
Inspect exposed pipe joints and fittings for cracks, bulges, or tiny leaks.
If you see damage or reduced pressure, shut off the main water and call for service.
Inspecting And Repairing Damage: Signs Of Ice, Leaks And Water Damage In Kitchens And Bathrooms
Look under sinks and behind appliances for damp insulation, stains, or warped materials.
Ceilings and baseboards showing discoloration may hide a burst pipe above or behind them.
Document damage with photos and shut off water, then schedule professional repairs.
Tips To Prevent Pipes From Freezing And Long Term Maintenance Checklist
- Insulate exposed pipes and add heat tape in high-risk areas.
- Keep the thermostat set and seal drafts around plumbing spaces.
- Drain outdoor lines before winter and know your main shutoff location.
- Run a small faucet drip during long cold snaps.
- Schedule annual checks of service lines, meters, and foundation penetrations.
HVAC, Thermal Insulation And Heating Solutions For Permanent Pipe Protection
Add insulation to exterior walls, attics, and crawl spaces to raise ambient pipe temperatures.
Consider localized electric warming systems controlled by thermostats for critical pipes.
Coordinate with HVAC pros to balance home heating and lower freeze risk efficiently.
Emergency Steps For Frozen Water Lines And When To Call Professional Plumbing Or Excavation
If pipes show bulging, loud cracking, or you smell gas, evacuate and call emergency services.
Turn off the main water if you suspect a burst pipe and stop electrical power near wet areas.
Call Eger Excavating & Concrete LLC when service lines, buried pipes, or post-freeze excavation is needed.
Eger Excavating & Concrete LLC Services For Water Line Repair, Replacement And Protective Excavation
Eger Excavating provides water line repair, replacement, and emergency thawing support.
We perform protective excavation, proper depth installation, and frost-resistant backfill.
Contact us for inspections, waterproofing, and long-term solutions to protect your water service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Freezing Pipes, Thawing Frozen Lines And Water Supply Safety
Q: What's the best way to keep water lines from freezing?
A: Insulate exposed pipes, keep heat on, and use heat tape where needed.
Q: How often should I run water to keep pipes from freezing?
A: Run a small drip during each cold snap; one faucet per supply zone usually suffices.
Q: Do you need to turn on all faucets to keep pipes from freezing?
A: No. Run one or two faucets served by exposed lines to relieve pressure and prevent ice.
Q: What temperature should a house be to avoid frozen pipes?
A: Keep the house no lower than 55°F to reduce freezing risk in unheated spaces.
Visit Our Contact Page To Schedule A Water Line Inspection, Emergency Thaw Or Excavation Service
Need help protecting or repairing frozen water lines? Call us at 814-571-4990.
Visit our website at https://egerexco.com to request a free estimate or more information.
Stop by our office at 236 S Potter St, Bellefonte, PA or view us on the map here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XnBKH1BjW5Nw3h7r7.
Eger Excavating & Concrete LLC protects homes and businesses across Central Pennsylvania.
We serve Bellefonte, State College, Milesburg, Port Matilda, Lock Haven, and nearby towns.
Call today to schedule a water line inspection and winter-prep plan tailored to your property.