The Guide to Protecting Your Pipes from Freezing During Winter in Georgia

Winter in Georgia is coming—is your home ready for it? Protecting your pipes from freezing can save you from costly repairs and frustrating inconveniences. When temperatures dip, water inside pipes can freeze and expand. Worst case, the pipes will burst and flood your home.

But you don’t need to fret about frozen pipes this winter. With some preventive measures, you can avoid these potential headaches while keeping your pipes in-tact–even during cold temperatures.

What are the Risks of Frozen Pipes

What happens when water freezes in your pipes? When temperatures fall, the water in your pipes can start to freeze. The freezing causes pressure and breaks the pipe. Broken pipes lead to leaks, water damage, and an expensive mess! 

Preventive steps today mean less hassle tomorrow, giving you peace of mind in the cold weather season.

What Happens When Pipes Freeze

• Water expands by about 9% when it freezes, putting immense pressure on your pipes.
• Pipes located along exterior walls or in unheated spaces are the most vulnerable.
• If water turns to ice inside, the pressure buildup can crack the pipe, leading to leaks and water damage once it thaws.

Protect Your Pipes from Freezing by Keep Your Home Warm and Cozy

Keeping your home warm isn’t just about personal comfort—it helps keep your pipes safe from freezing! While you don’t have to dress your pipes in a scarf and warm winter jacket, a warmer home environment maintains water flow and reduces the risk of ice forming within your pipes.

Keys to Keeping Your Home Warm this Winter

• Set your thermostat to a consistent temperature, even at night.
• Open interior doors to improve warm air circulation throughout the home.
• Seal any gaps in windows and doors to keep out cold drafts.

Keep Water Flowing All Winter

Ever wondered why dripping faucets are recommended in cold weather? It’s a simple yet effective tactic for protecting your pipes from freezing. Moving water has a harder time freezing, so even a slow trickle can prevent pipes from freezing solid.

When and Where to Let Water Run

• Allow a slow drip from faucets connected to pipes along exterior walls.
• Focus on areas where pipes are exposed, like the basement, attic, and under sinks.
• Even if it seems wasteful, a small water bill is far cheaper than fixing a broken pipe!

Insulate Those Pipes Right

Pipe insulation provides a barrier against freezing temperatures, keeping your pipes warmer and less likely to freeze. If your pipes are already insulated, check the condition and replace worn insulation as needed.

The Best Ways to Insulate Pipes

• Foam Tubes: Slide foam pipe insulation tubes over exposed pipes. They’re easy to install and effective.
• Heat Tape: Use electric heat tape to wrap around pipes. This method provides warmth directly to the pipe.
• Pipe Covers: Insulated covers add extra protection for pipes in garages, basements, and crawl spaces.

Don’t Forget Outdoor Pipes

Outdoor pipes, faucets, and hoses are especially vulnerable. Freezing temperatures impact these areas quickly, often leading to bursts that go unnoticed until spring.

Prepping Outdoor Pipes for Winter

• Drain Outdoor Faucets: Shut off water to exterior faucets, then drain and cover them to prevent freezing.
• Disconnect Hoses: Remove any attached garden hoses and store them indoors.
• Use Faucet Covers: Simple, affordable faucet covers provide added insulation for exterior faucets.

Shield Unheated Areas

Got an unheated basement, garage, or crawl space? These areas are prime spots for frozen pipes. Keeping these spaces warm—even a little—can make a big difference in protecting your pipes from freezing.

Warming Up Unheated Areas

• Space Heaters: Place a portable heater in unheated areas during very cold weather to prevent freezing.
• Weatherstripping: Seal gaps around doors and windows to reduce drafts.
• Insulation Blankets: Wrap pipes in basement or crawl space areas with pipe insulation or insulation blankets.

Protecting Your Pipes from Freezing with Prep Work

In Georgia, unexpected cold snaps can catch us off guard. A little preparation can help you stay ahead of these surprises.

What to Do Before a Freeze Warning

• Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks.
• Stock Up on Supplies: Keep pipe repair tape and a bucket on hand in case you discover a small leak.
• Check Heating Systems: Make sure your furnace is in top shape to prevent heating issues in a sudden freeze.

Stay Vigilant for Signs of Freezing

Spotting freezing issues early is key to preventing bigger problems. If you notice any unusual signs, act quickly to avoid costly damage.

Signs to Watch Out For

• Low Water Pressure: A sudden drop could indicate a frozen section of pipe.
• Frost on Pipes: Visible frost or condensation on exposed pipes is a warning sign.
• Unusual Sounds: Banging or gurgling noises from pipes can mean they’re under pressure from ice buildup.

What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze

If a pipe freezes, don’t panic! Immediate action can prevent a full rupture. It’s important to warm up the frozen section carefully and steadily.

Steps to Thaw a Frozen Pipe

• Turn Off the Water: This prevents flooding if the pipe bursts.
• Use a Hairdryer: Direct warm air along the pipe, starting closest to the faucet.
• Wrap with a Warm Towel: Soak a towel in warm water and wrap it around the frozen area to help thaw it gently.

Freezing temperatures don’t need to spell trouble for your pipes. With these steps in mind, you can keep your home safe, your pipes protected, and your winter hassle-free. Remember, staying prepared and vigilant means you’re ready to face any sudden cold snaps head-on!

Protect Your Pipes from Freezing with Showtime Express Plumbing

Don’t let cold temperatures take you by surprise! With Showtime Express Plumbing, you get more than just a quick fix—you get a team of professionals dedicated to keeping your home safe and warm. We know how frustrating and costly frozen pipes can be, and our plumbers are here to help you prevent that. From expert pipe insulation to targeted solutions for unheated spaces, we’ll make sure your home is fully protected against the chill!