18 Nov Winter Is Coming: Frozen Pipe Prevention

About The Author

Tiffany Boyle, TPRA, CISR- Personal Risk Advisor 

Since joining Gilbert’s Risk Solutions in 2005, Tiffany has dedicated herself to providing personalized insurance solutions to meet clients’ unique personal insurance needs.

With cold weather starting to creep in, it’s time to prepare your home for winter. Winter brings unique challenges, particularly cold-related risks like frozen pipes. If your home isn’t prepared, you could be facing significant water damage from burst pipes, in addition to general plumbing repairs. Without frozen pipe prevention measures in place, you could be facing not only plumbing repairs but also significant water damage from burst pipes.

Some homes are built to withstand the cold better than others, but even the sturdiest homes have vulnerable areas. Pipes in unheated spaces like garages, basements, attics, and crawl spaces are particularly at risk. Outdoor spigots and pipes located in outer walls also face a higher risk of freezing compared to those within the home’s interior walls. So, what can you do to protect your pipes?

Steps to Take Before Winter Weather Hits

Before winter fully sets in, there are several preventive measures you can take to reduce the risk of burst pipes. For areas with vulnerable pipes, adding insulation is one of the most effective ways to provide protection. Be sure to insulate not only the pipes but also any cracks in unheated areas like attics, basements, and garages. This added insulation helps maintain a more consistent temperature and reduces the risk of freezing.

How to Respond When Temperatures Drop

When freezing temperatures are in the forecast, it’s time to take action. Here are a few key steps:

• Open cabinets: Allow warm air to circulate around pipes by opening cabinet doors where pipes are located, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Close exterior doors: Keep garage doors and windows tightly shut to minimize exposure to the cold.
• Let faucets drip: For pipes at higher risk of freezing, keep a slow drip of water running. This helps relieve pressure within the pipes and reduces the chances of bursting.
• Keep the heat on: Maintaining a steady temperature of 55 degrees or higher, even when you’re away, can prevent pipes from freezing. Turning off the heat to save money could result in costly repairs.

Smart Solutions for Frozen Pipe Prevention

While frozen pipes are a longstanding issue, modern technology offers new ways to prevent damage.

• Installing smart leak detectors can help you catch leaks before they escalate, while smart thermostats allow you to monitor your home’s temperature and ensure it stays within a safe range.
• Weather alerts and mobile apps can also keep you informed about sudden temperature drops, so you can act quickly to protect your pipes—even when you’re away.

Winter can be harsh on homes, but with the right preventive measures, you can protect your pipes from freezing and bursting. By adding insulation, keeping your home at a consistent temperature, and using smart technology to monitor conditions, you can avoid costly damage and keep your home safe all season long. As winter approaches, make sure you’re prepared—because a little frozen pipe prevention now can save you from major headaches later.

If you’re unsure about your policy details or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to contact one of our talented Risk Advisors today! They can help clarify your coverage and ensure all your bases are covered. Remember, small adjustments made now can lead to significant peace of mind when winter weather strikes!

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