frozen pipes Archives

Preventing Frozen Pipes This Winter

A H Neaman on January 31, 2025

Winter can be beautiful, but it also brings challenges for homeowners, particularly the risk of frozen pipes. When temperatures drop, unprotected pipes can freeze, leading to bursts, water damage, and costly repairs. Fortunately, with some proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes and keep your home safe throughout the season.

If the worst happens and you experience water damage from a burst pipe, A H Neaman Company is here to help. As trusted public adjusters serving Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Maryland, we’ll guide you through the insurance claims process and ensure you get the settlement you deserve.

Why Do Pipes Freeze?

Pipes freeze when the water inside them reaches 32°F (0°C) or below. As water freezes, it expands, creating immense pressure inside the pipe. This pressure can cause the pipe to crack or burst, leading to significant water damage when the ice thaws.

Pipes most at risk of freezing include those located in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, garages, and exterior walls.

Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Insulate Pipes

Adding insulation to exposed pipes is one of the most effective ways to prevent freezing.

Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape on pipes located in unheated areas.
Pay special attention to pipes near exterior walls, in basements, and in crawl spaces.

Insulation helps retain heat and keeps the cold air from coming into direct contact with your pipes.

2. Maintain a Consistent Temperature

Keeping your home at a consistent temperature can help prevent pipes from freezing.

Set your thermostat to at least 55°F, even when you’re away.
Open interior doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

If you’re leaving for an extended period, consider shutting off your main water supply and draining your pipes to prevent freezing altogether.

3. Seal Cracks and Gaps

Cold air can seep into your home through cracks and gaps, increasing the risk of frozen pipes.

Seal any gaps around doors, windows, and pipes that lead to the outdoors.
Use caulk or weather stripping to block drafts and keep warm air inside.

By preventing cold air from entering your home, you’ll create a more stable environment for your pipes.

4. Allow Faucets to Drip

Letting faucets drip during extremely cold weather can relieve pressure in your pipes and reduce the likelihood of freezing.

Turn on a slow trickle of water from faucets connected to vulnerable pipes.
Running water, even at a low volume, is less likely to freeze than stagnant water.

This simple step can make a big difference during a cold snap.

5. Protect Outdoor Faucets and Hoses

Outdoor faucets and hoses are particularly vulnerable to freezing temperatures.

Disconnect and drain garden hoses before storing them for the winter.
Install insulated covers over outdoor faucets.
Shut off the water supply to outdoor spigots if possible.

Taking these precautions will prevent ice from forming and damaging your outdoor plumbing.

6. Keep Garage Doors Closed

If you have water supply lines in your garage, keeping the garage door closed can help maintain a warmer temperature inside.

Avoid leaving the garage door open for extended periods during cold weather.
Consider adding insulation to your garage door for extra protection.

What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze

If you suspect a pipe has frozen, act quickly to minimize damage:

Turn off the water supply to prevent flooding if the pipe bursts.
Thaw the pipe carefully using a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels. Never use an open flame or blowtorch.
Call a plumber if you’re unable to locate or safely thaw the frozen pipe.

If a pipe bursts and causes water damage, document the damage with photos and videos, and reach out to your insurance company to begin the claims process.

How A H Neaman Company Can Help

Dealing with water damage from a burst pipe can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating the insurance claims process. That’s where A H Neaman Company comes in.

As experienced public adjusters serving Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Maryland, we advocate for homeowners to ensure they receive the compensation they’re entitled to.

Why Choose A H Neaman Company?

Expert Guidance: We know the ins and outs of water damage claims and will handle the details for you.
Comprehensive Documentation: We thoroughly document the damage to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Maximized Settlements: We negotiate with your insurance company to secure the best possible outcome.

Don’t let the stress of a burst pipe derail your life. Call A H Neaman Company for expert support and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Preventing frozen pipes is all about preparation and vigilance. By insulating pipes, sealing drafts, and maintaining a consistent temperature in your home, you can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes this winter.

However, if you do experience water damage from a burst pipe, know that you don’t have to face the insurance claims process alone. A H Neaman Company is here to help homeowners in PA, WV, and MD recover quickly and efficiently.