Frozen Pipes -- Causes and Cures

Frozen pipes are a major winter-time problem during periods of extremely cold weather. As freezing water expands, it generates enough pressure to burst pipes and fixtures. When frozen pipes thaw, flooding can result and cause extensive damage.

Freezing can occur in any water pipe exposed to temperatures of 32 degrees Farenheit or below. However, freezing is unlikely in pipes when water is flowing. Pipes in attics, crawl spaces, and unheated rooms are particularly susceptible to freezing. Pipes in exterior walls also may be frozen with temperatures below freezing during severely cold weather. This problem has become more common in homes where the thermostat has been set back to conserve energy or is near a space heater.

Pipe and fixture freezing is also a problem in unheated homes that have not been winterized. Related precautions and remedial steps go beyond the scope of this information sheet, however.

• In pipes and fixtures that have frozen previously.
• In exposed pipes in unheated rooms, attics, or crawl spaces.
• In pipes running in exterior walls.

To reduce the chances of freeze-up:

• Let water trickle from fixtures and make sure the drain remains open and clear.
• Discontinue use of low, nighttime thermostat settings during periods of extreme cold. You will use a little more fuel, but this will provide added protection to pipes during these periods.

If pipes are frozen:

• Open the taps of frozen fixtures to help relieve pressure and reduce the chances of bursting pipes. Be ready to turn them off when the pipes clear.
• Increase temperatures in the home to help warm pipes, especially those in outside walls. The thermostat can be turned up or space heaters can be used to warm individual rooms. The opening of cabinet doors will also facilitate warmer air's reaching frozen pipes.
• Plumbers frequently use a torch to thaw frozen pipes. This is dangerous. In addition to a high risk of fire, there is also danger of overheating a section of the pipe. Excessive heat in one spot can cause water to boil in the pipe and possibly explode. Leave this practice to a professional.
• Heat may also be applied to pipes by use of rags soaked in hot water or with devices such as hair dryers. Electrical equipment should be used only if you are familiar with the needed precautions associated with preventing electrical shock.

Future protection:

• It may be practical to relocate pipes to provide increased protection from extremely cold temperatures. Consider this step during remodeling projects.
• Insulating pipes provides little protection from freezing. No heat is added to the pipes. The insulation merely slows the rate at which the pipes freeze.
• Insulation applied to crawl-space walls (where a work area makes this possible) will maintain higher temperatures in such places. In addition to providing some protection for pipes here, the floor above will be somewhat warmer, and fuel savings will be realized.
• If the house is vacant during part of the season, arrange for someone to check it daily for problems.

Be familiar with your main water supply:

• Locate the main water supply valve (usually in the basement or utility room).
• Check the condition of the valve and learn how it operates. Look for rust and corrosion and make sure the valve is functional. If it is not, arrange for necessary repairs.

By Dr. Frances C. Graham, Extension Housing Specialist

Mississippi State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, handicap, or veteran status.

Information Sheet 1438
Extension Service of Mississippi State University, cooperating with U.S. Department of Agriculture. Published in furtherance of Acts of Congress, May 8 and June 30, 1914. Ronald A. Brown, Director

Copyright by Mississippi State University. All rights reserved.

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