How to protect water pipes during freezing temperatures

PERRY – Earlier this week, a freeze warning was in effect in middle Georgia, with temperatures dropping to the 20s. With more chances for freezing temperatures during the winter, it is essential to protect often-overlooked water pipes. 

Affordable Plumbing has been serving Houston County for over a decade, and broken pipe calls vary, according to manager Bridgette Howard.

She said that a few years ago, there was a freeze the week of Christmas. The day after the holiday, the business received over 100 calls related to burst pipes. 

Earlier this year, it snowed in Houston County, but Affordable Plumbing wasn’t as busy with 70 to 80 calls. She believes calm winds didn’t severely affect the pipes. 

Recently, the business did not receive any calls related to pipe ruptures, a favorable outcome, according to Howard. She said temperatures were warm enough during the day, which prevented water from freezing at night. 

“We didn’t have to deal with it this go around, but it is something that happens,” she said. 

Water is constantly flowing in pipes, even when the faucet isn’t on. Howard said overnight freezes typically aren’t a big deal, but freezing temperatures that last for several days cause the ground and water to freeze. 

Howard said frozen pipes are the first warning sign of an issue that could escalate. When water freezes, it causes pipes and fixtures to expand, resulting in a buildup of pressure that can lead to a rupture. 

When a pipe breaks, the water is often initially frozen. When temperatures rise and water starts flowing, it escapes into the home, leading to water damage. If not correctly addressed, leaks could also lead to mold, Howard explained. 

Thankfully, the plumbing company doesn’t have to deal with bursting pipes frequently, since many homes in the area are well-insulated, Howard said.

“It’s not a huge issue but it is something that can happen when we have a long-run of freezing temperatures,” she said. 

Howard advises any pipes exposed to elements outside of homes be insulated. Basic insulation can be purchased at Ace Hardware or Lowe’s and wrapped around the pipe to help protect it from the wind. 

Howard also advised against leaking outside fixtures, such as a hose bibb or spigot, since the water is connected to the inside of the home. 

During freezes, Howard recommends keeping cabinet doors underneath sinks open to allow warm air to circulate. She also recommends leaving faucets on a steady drip to keep water flowing. 

“As long as it’s moving, it’s not going to be freezing,” she said. 

Howard encourages homeowners to know the location of their water meter. She also recommends knowing where the main water shutoff valve is, or installing one if not already in place. 

If there is a leak, homeowners can more easily stop water flow and prevent further damage, she explained. 

Finally, she advised having emergency contact information readily available. This includes the fire department, plumbers, and electricians. 

“Have all those things on standby for if something happens. You’re not having to panic and search; you know exactly who to call when disaster does happen,” she said. 

For more tips on protecting pipes, click here. To find out more about Affordable Plumbing, visit their website here.