Prevent Frozen Pipes
Key takeaways
- Pipes exposed to cold are the highest risk: outdoor faucets, swimming pool supply lines, and plumbing in unheated or exterior walls.
- Insulate vulnerable pipes, disconnect hoses, and let faucets drip during a hard freeze.
- Keep the heat on even when away, since an unheated home is where the most expensive burst-pipe claims originate.
- A burst pipe can produce a large water damage claim quickly, and some policies exclude damage tied to leaving heat off.
- If a pipe is already frozen, act carefully and quickly. Capitol Benefits can confirm what your DMV policy covers.
Which Pipes Pose the Biggest Threat?
Pipes exposed to the cold, including those outdoors and on the exterior walls of your home. These include:- Outdoor faucets.
- Swimming pool supply lines.
- Lawn sprinkler lines.
- Water pipes in locations such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages and kitchen, and bathroom cabinets.
- Pipes in exterior walls with little insulation.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Close inside valves supplying water to outdoor sources.
- Open outdoor water sources to allow water to drain and keep them open during winter.
- Protect water pipes in the garage by closing the door.
- If plumbing is located in cabinets, open the doors.
- Let a small amount of water drip from faucets.
- Set your thermostat to a minimum of 55 degrees.
Why Should You Care?
- Water expands when it freezes and puts pressure on pipes.
- As water freezes, the expansion can cause both plastic and metal pipes to burst.
- Burst pipes are a silent disaster. The water from the burst pipe is likely frozen for the winter, but once thawing begins, water damage occurs and it is already too late.
If You Already Have a Frozen Pipe
- Call a licensed plumber ASAP.
- Contact us for help and advice if you have a claim!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pipes are most likely to freeze?
Those exposed to cold air: outdoor faucets, pool supply lines, irrigation lines, and any plumbing running through garages, crawl spaces, attics, or exterior walls.
How do I prevent frozen pipes?
Insulate exposed pipes, disconnect and drain garden hoses, seal drafts near plumbing, let vulnerable faucets drip during a hard freeze, and keep the thermostat at a steady temperature even when traveling.
Does insurance cover a burst pipe?
Sudden water damage from a burst pipe is generally covered, subject to your deductible. Many policies exclude damage where the home was unoccupied and the heat was turned off, so keeping heat on matters.
What should I do if a pipe is already frozen?
Shut off the water supply, open the affected faucet, and warm the pipe gradually with towels or a hair dryer. Never use an open flame. If the pipe has burst, shut off the main and call for help immediately.
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