Denver winters can be unpredictable. One day, the sun is out, and the snow is melting; the next, temperatures drop well below freezing. These sudden temperature swings can put homes and businesses at risk, especially when it comes to frozen pipes. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, creating pressure that can cause pipes to crack or burst. And once that ice melts, it can lead to serious water damage.
Preventing frozen pipes isn’t just about avoiding a burst pipe, it’s about protecting your home from expensive repairs, mold growth, and the stress that comes with dealing with water damage. A few simple steps can go a long way in keeping your plumbing safe during the cold months.
Keeping Pipes Warm
The best way to prevent pipes from freezing is to make sure they stay warm enough, even when the outside temperatures drop. Insulation is key. Any pipes that run through unheated spaces, such as basements, attics, garages, or crawl spaces, should be wrapped in pipe insulation or heat tape. This extra layer helps keep the cold out and the warmth in.
Inside the home, maintaining a steady temperature is just as important. Setting the thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit—even when away for extended periods—can help keep pipes from freezing. It’s tempting to lower the heat to save on energy bills, but a frozen pipe can end up costing far more in repairs.
Cabinet doors under sinks should be left open during extremely cold nights. This allows warm air to circulate around the pipes, reducing the chances of freezing. For pipes along exterior walls, using a space heater in the area or adding extra insulation inside the wall can provide additional protection.
Running Water Helps
Still water freezes more easily than running water. Allowing faucets to drip slightly during extreme cold can help prevent freezing by keeping water moving through the pipes. It doesn’t have to be a strong stream—just a slow, steady drip can make a difference, especially for pipes along exterior walls or in colder parts of the home.
In homes with multiple levels, letting both hot and cold water drip from different faucets can help balance the pressure in the system, further reducing the risk of a pipe bursting.
Sealing Up Cold Air
Cold air getting into the home makes it much harder to keep pipes warm. Sealing up any gaps, cracks, or holes near pipes—especially where they enter the home—can prevent freezing temperatures from affecting them. Expanding foam or caulking around these openings can make a big difference.
Garage doors should be kept closed as much as possible, especially if there are pipes running through the garage. If a garage is used as a workspace, adding a small heater or insulating the door can help maintain a warmer temperature.
Outdoor Precautions
Outdoor water sources are some of the most vulnerable to freezing. Garden hoses should be disconnected before the first freeze, and outdoor faucets should be shut off and drained. If the home has a dedicated shut-off valve for outdoor spigots, turning it off and opening the faucet to let any remaining water drain out is a good precaution.
For sprinkler systems, proper winterization is a must. Any water left inside the system can freeze and cause underground pipes to crack. Blowing out the lines with compressed air ensures no water remains.
What to Do If Pipes Freeze
Even with the best precautions, pipes can still freeze. When that happens, acting quickly can prevent a bigger disaster. If a faucet isn’t running and there’s reason to believe the pipe is frozen, the first step is to turn off the main water supply. This helps avoid a sudden burst once the pipe thaws.
Applying gentle heat to the frozen area can help thaw it safely. A hairdryer, space heater, or warm towels can be used to slowly warm the pipe. Open flames should never be used, as they can create a fire hazard. If the pipe is inside a wall, turning up the home’s heat and directing warm air toward the area may help.
If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water supply immediately is the most important step. Water damage can spread quickly, soaking walls, floors, and belongings. Calling a professional water damage restoration company as soon as possible can help minimize the damage and get the home back to normal.
Long-Term Solutions
For homeowners dealing with frequent frozen pipes, there are long-term solutions that can make a big difference. Adding insulation to areas where pipes are prone to freezing, such as basements, crawl spaces, or exterior walls, can help keep temperatures more stable. If the home has an older heating system, upgrading to a more efficient one can also help maintain a more consistent indoor temperature.
Another option is installing frost-proof outdoor faucets and pressure-relief valves on vulnerable pipes. These can reduce the chances of freezing and bursting by allowing excess pressure to escape.
Smart home technology can also provide an extra layer of protection. Water leak detectors and smart thermostats can alert homeowners to freezing temperatures or unexpected water flow, allowing them to act quickly before serious damage occurs.
Why Prevention Matters
Dealing with water damage from frozen pipes is not only frustrating but can also be expensive. Water-soaked drywall, ruined flooring, and damaged belongings can add up quickly. Mold growth is another concern, as damp conditions create the perfect environment for mold to spread.
Preventing frozen pipes is about more than just avoiding inconvenience, it’s about protecting a home from costly repairs and long-term damage. Taking a few simple precautions before the cold weather sets in can save time, money, and stress when winter arrives.
At Anatom Restoration, we understand how destructive water damage can be, and we’re here to help if the unexpected happens. Our team is ready 24/7 to handle frozen pipes, burst pipes, and any water damage emergencies. But with the right steps, homeowners can reduce the risk of frozen pipes and enjoy a worry-free winter. Get expert help now!
