When it gets cold, one big worry for homeowners is frozen pipes. You may be asking the question, “How long does it take for pipes to freeze?” Not only do frozen pipes stop water from flowing, but they can also burst and cause serious water damage. This common problem can be avoided if you take the right steps.
In this post, we’ll explain what makes pipes freeze, the dangers of frozen pipes, and how to stop it from happening. Whether a winter storm is coming or you want to prepare for the season, these tips can help keep your home safe.
What Makes Pipes Freeze?
- Freezing Temperatures: Pipes usually freeze when it gets colder than 20°F (-6°C). Pipes in places like basements, attics, or garages are more at risk because they don’t stay as warm as the rest of your house.
- Pipe Material and Size: The type of pipe matters. Metal pipes, like copper, freeze faster than plastic ones. Small pipes also freeze quicker because they have less water inside.
- Insulation and Cold Air: Pipes in areas without good insulation or that are exposed to cold drafts are more likely to freeze. Cold air makes the water inside the pipe cool down faster.
- How Long It Stays Cold: If it’s cold for a short time, your pipes might be okay. But if it’s freezing for many hours or days, there’s a much higher chance your pipes will freeze.
How Long Does it Take For Pipes to Freeze?
Pipes with no protection can start freezing in 4-6 hours if it’s very cold. In extremely cold or drafty areas, freezing can happen in as little as 2-3 hours. For example, pipes outside your house could start to freeze on a night when the temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. By morning, they could burst despite your best efforts.
What Can Happen When Pipes Freeze?
When water freezes, it expands and puts a lot of pressure on the pipe. This can cause the pipe to burst. When the ice melts, the water can flood your home, damaging walls, floors, and your belongings.
Fixing a burst pipe can be very costly depending on the damage. Cleaning up water damage can make the cost even higher. Preventing frozen pipes is much cheaper than dealing with these repairs.
How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing
- Add Insulation and Seal Gaps: Cover pipes with foam sleeves to keep them warm. Seal any gaps around doors, windows, and walls where cold air can get in.
- Let Faucets Drip: Keeping faucets running slightly helps water move through the pipes, which stops it from freezing.
- Keep Your Home Warm: Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (13°C), even if you’re not home. This helps keep pipes warm, especially in colder areas of your house.
- Use Heating Cables: Heating cables or pipe warmers provide extra heat to pipes that are in unheated spaces like garages or crawl spaces.
- Prepare for Power Outages: If you lose heat, drain your water system or use portable heaters to warm key areas. Wrap exposed pipes with blankets or towels to keep them insulated.
- Keep Your Garage Closed: A lot of important pipes are located in your garage, so it is important to keep your garage door closed as much as possible during the winter.
What to Do If Pipes Freeze
There are many things you can do if you find a frozen pipe, but the best thing you can do is call us immediately after shutting the water off. We know how to deal with situations like this in a timely and professional manner.
Stay Ahead of Freezing Pipes
Frozen pipes are more than a hassle—they can damage your home and cost you a lot of money. By learning what causes pipes to freeze and taking steps to prevent it, you can avoid these issues. Insulating pipes, sealing gaps, and keeping your home warm are simple ways to protect your plumbing.
Contact us today if you are dealing with a burst pipe in your home! We are here to help you.