As winter comes to Washington, homeowners all over the state are worried about the same thing: frozen pipes. A burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in water damage, making it a home repair that people dread and that costs a lot of money in the winter. That’s why a lot of homeowners ask Spartan Plumbing Inc., the best Tacoma plumbing service team, for help protecting their homes during the winter.
While water freezes at 32°F, it takes a more significant and sustained cold snap to freeze the pipes in your home. Generally, the “danger zone” for pipe freezing begins when the outside temperature drops to 20°F or below.
Why 20 Degrees is the Unofficial Danger Zone
It might seem strange that pipes don’t freeze at 32°F, but there are a few things going on. The pressure in your pipes makes the water a little less likely to freeze. Most pipes are inside your home, in walls, basements, or crawl spaces, which is more important. This insulation keeps you safe from short dips below freezing.
The cold can get into these less-heated areas and freeze the water inside, but only when the temperature drops to 20°F or lower for six hours or more.
Things That Make Pipes More Likely to Freeze
While 20°F is a good rule of thumb, several factors can make your pipes more vulnerable to freezing.
- Not enough insulation: Pipes in places that aren’t insulated or aren’t well insulated, like attics, crawl spaces, and along outside walls, are the most at risk. These pipes are directly exposed to the cold and can freeze quickly if they don’t have enough insulation.
- Air Leaks and Drafts: A cold draft can be just as bad as not having enough insulation. If there are small cracks in your foundation, around windows, or where utility lines come into the house, cold air can blow right onto your pipes. It’s very important to seal up any holes that let air in, especially near plumbing.
- The location of your pipes is important. Pipes in places that aren’t heated, like garages, basements, and attics, are likely to freeze. If your pipes are on an outside wall, especially one that faces north, they could be in danger.
- Thermostat Setbacks: Lowering your thermostat saves energy, but if you set it too low, your pipes could be in danger. To make sure your pipes get enough heat from the air, keep your thermostat at 55°F or higher, even when you’re not home.
How to Keep Your Pipes From Freezing
Prevention is the best defense against a burst pipe. Here are some practical steps for Washington homeowners before a cold snap:
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: Wrap any pipes in unheated areas with foam pipe sleeves or fiberglass insulation. This is a simple and cheap thing to do that makes a big difference.
- Seal Air Leaks: Look around your house for cracks or holes that could let cold air into your pipes. Seal them with spray foam or caulk.
- Let Faucets Drip: When it’s really cold, let the faucets that are farthest from your main water shutoff drip slowly and steadily. The drip eases pressure in the pipes, and moving water is less likely to freeze.
- Open the cabinet doors: If there are pipes in cabinets along outside walls, open the doors to let warmer air flow around them.
- Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: Before the first freeze, drain and disconnect all outdoor hoses. If you leave it connected, water can freeze in the hose and spigot, which can make the pipe burst inside your wall.
What to Do if Your Pipes Freeze
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle of water comes out, you may have a frozen pipe. Here’s what to do:
- Keep the Faucet Open: Leaving the faucet open will allow water to flow as the pipe thaws and will help relieve pressure.
- Apply Gentle Heat: Use a hairdryer, a heating pad, or warm towels to gently thaw the frozen section of the pipe. Start at the faucet and work your way back to the blockage. Never use an open flame, as this can damage the pipe and create a fire hazard.
- Call a Professional: If you can’t locate the frozen section or are unable to thaw it, call a licensed plumber. A professional has the tools and expertise to safely thaw your pipes and inspect for damage.
A Proactive Approach to Winter in Washington
In Washington, it’s not a matter of if it will get cold enough to freeze pipes, but when. You can avoid the stress and cost of a burst pipe by knowing the risks and taking action.
Keep in mind the 20°F danger zone, insulate your pipes that are at risk, and learn how to tell when a freeze is coming. A little planning can make a big difference in how safe and comfortable the winter will be.
Spartan Plumbing Inc.
760 107th St S, Tacoma, WA 98444
(253)655-9925
