Frozen water pipes are an issue that can affect families in both cold and milder climates each winter. When temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, pipes can freeze and burst, regardless of whether they are made of plastic or copper. By implementing the preventative measures listed below, you can help minimize the likelihood of frozen water pipes and the subsequent damage to your property.

The numbers

According to 2023 State Farm claims data, the company received more than 17,200 claims related to frozen pipes, paying more than $432.5M, with the average claim just over $23,500.

Tips to prevent frozen pipes

• Insulate pipes. Because exposed pipes are more susceptible to freezing, pipe insulation in your home's crawl spaces and attic may help even if you live in a climate where freezing is uncommon.
• Try heat tape or heat cables. Heat tape or thermostatically-controlled heat cables may be used to wrap pipes. Consider using products for the intended use (exterior or interior) and those approved by an independent testing organization. Carefully follow all manufacturer's installation and operation instructions.
• Seal leaks. Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents and pipes. Thoroughly seal leaks with caulk or insulation to help keep the cold out.
• Secure outdoor hoses, valves and faucets. Before winter hits, disconnect garden hoses and, if possible, use an indoor valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets. This may help prevent freezing of the short span of pipe just inside the house.
• Let water drip. A trickle of water might be all it takes to keep your pipes from freezing. Let warm water drip overnight when temperatures are cold, preferably from an indoor faucet on an outside wall.
• Adjust the thermostat. Keeping your thermostat set at the same temperature day and night may help prevent frozen pipes. During extreme cold, this may also help reduce the strain on the furnace.
• Open cabinet doors. This allows heat to better get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

Tips if you leave for vacation

• Check the thermostat. Set the thermostat in your house no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius). Also check and replace the battery in your thermostat, if needed.
• Ask for help. Consider asking a friend or neighbor to check your house daily to see that it's warm enough to prevent freezing.
• Shut off the water. Shut off and drain the water system. Be aware that if you have a sprinkler system in your house, it may be deactivated when you shut off the water.

What do to if pipes freeze

• Call a plumber if needed. If you turn on your faucets and nothing comes out, leave the faucets turned on and contact your plumber.
• Avoid applying flames to thaw pipes. Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame because it could cause a fire hazard.
• Consider a hair dryer as a possible heat source (with caution). You may be able to thaw a frozen pipe using a hair dryer. Before you start, see that you are not in or near standing water or near flammable materials. Start by warming the pipe as close to the faucet as possible, working toward the coldest section of pipe.
• Shut off the water supply. If your water leak detection system has already gone off or your pipes have burst, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve in the house. See that everyone in your family knows where the water shutoff valve is and how to open and close it. Be sure to leave the water faucets turned on.