How Cold Can Cause Pipes To Freeze? (Signs & Preventions) (2024)

When the weather gets colder, you may occasionally see your pipes leaking or getting damaged, and sometimes, you will wonder why. The most common cause is due to frozen pipes。

Well, there are many reasons why pipes freeze, all to do with weather, location, materials, etc. In this article, we will discuss some of them.

Reasons Why Pipes Freeze

Given the weather, your pipes may freeze during colder seasons. But, at what exact temperature will this freezing occur?

Is the temperature only one to blame or are there causes of this freezing? In this article, we will discuss some of the reasons why pipes freeze.

1. Zero temperature

Just like us who tend to freeze whenever the temperature drops below 0, pipes also do! However, take note that outdoor pipes are more likely to be frozen compared to indoor pipes.

For indoor pipes, when the temperature reaches below -6 degrees Celsius, that will be the time for it to freeze. This is because indoor pipes are more protected from bursts and damage because they are less affected by extreme outdoor temperatures.

2. South or north

How Cold Can Cause Pipes To Freeze? (Signs & Preventions) (1)

Moreover, the location or area of your home also affects your pipes. If you are coming from the North, you should already have insulated pipes because the Northern area is prone to cold weather.The northern climate always falls below 0.

On the other hand, if you are from the South, you are more likely to experience freezing pipes because, usually, the weather in the South is hot and people do not always insulate their pipes. When the weather becomes cold, the faucets and pipes are highly affected.

To be more specific, the pipes that are prone to freezing are uninsulated pipes in the attic, outdoors, basem*nt, and crawl space, and those that are made from copper or steel.

3. How well is your insulation

The way you insulated your home pipes greatly affects their chance of being frozen. If they are well-insulated, they can only freeze at extreme temperatures after 6 hours of being exposed to that temperature. Or maybe not. If they are truly well-insulated, they might not be affected at all!

However, if your pipes are poorly insulated, they can freeze within 3 hours of being exposed to a certain temperature.

4. Locations of the pipes

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Aside from being located indoors or outdoors, your pipes that have no access to heaters or radiators are more likely to be frozen.

Because of this, always check to see that the area where your outdoor and indoor water supply lines are placed is adequately heated and that they are securely insulated using high-quality materials.By doing this, you can avoid both water line bursting and water line freezing in your house.

In addition, there are also these sprinkle pipes that are prone to freezing. Since these pipes are always exposed to cold temperatures or weather, as soon as the temperature reaches 0 degrees Celsius, expect them to be frozen. In normal areas, the time for them to freeze is around 4 hours from being exposed to the cold temperature but in colder areas, this period can be shortened.

5. Quality of materials

Specifically, the higher the quality of materials used for home insulation, the less chance your pipes will be frozen.

Sometimes, even if you insulate your pipes but you only use poor materials, they will always be prone to damage and freezing. This is the reason why many plumbing experts always recommend costly but durable materials.

Based on personal preference, I always choose quality over price because I believe that it is better to pay more for just one purchase than having the need to pay less but frequently.

Signs of Frozen Pipes

Every December, I always wondered why the water flow in our home is so slow. Then, I realized that it was during the cold months when pipes tend to freeze, thus, limiting the water supply.

Aside from low water supply, there are other signs of frozen pipes. Some of these are the following:

  • Smelly drains and faucets
  • The least water supply might have the damaged pipes
  • Visible outdoor frozen pipes

For the last point, when you have seen one, take this as a sign that your other pipes may be damaged as well.

Pipes Freezing Vs Pipes Bursting

Well, we have to also discuss the difference between freezing and bursting as these two mean different things when it comes to pipes.

Pipes Freezing

Generally, freezing only means having your pipes get those icy looks. If you want to visualize it better, picture in your mind a block of ice in your fridge. At lower temperatures, they would freeze.

When freezing occurs, you can use an electric hair dryer to melt the ice blockages. You will know if you have done it well when full water pressure finally comes back.

Take note that you should never try using open flame or other flammable materials when melting ice as this is very hazardous and increases the risk of fire.

Pipes Bursting

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On the other hand, bursting means damage to your pipes. As said, if the temperature is below 0 degrees Celsius, freezing will take place. But, if the temperature is below -6 degrees Celsius, bursting may happen.

When bursting occurs, your pipes are already opened or cracked. This means that leakage will already occur even after you unfreeze them. What you can only do now is replace the whole pipe or the section of pipe that was damaged.If you come to take a look at it, this is more expensive than deciding to insulate your pipes in the first place.

If you experience pipe bursting, the best thing to do is to call a plumbing professional. But, if you want to do the repair on your own, it is also possible. Just shut off the water pipeline or water supply and then use the necessary tools that can help you replace the damaged pipe.

If you are one of the homeowners residing in a condo or apartment, do not try to do the repair on your own. Instead, you’d better call the office and ask their plumbers to do the work for you.

How to Prevent Freezing of Cold Pipes

Keep in mind that it is always better to prevent than to fix it. This means that, if you do not want to spend much money on repairing your pipes, doing the following techniques would be better:

  • Balance your home temperature. For example, if you have maxed your air conditioning system, take some time to heat inside your home.
  • If you are going out, even just for a short vacation, the best thing to do is to switch off your main water valve.
  • Whenever cold weather occurs, allow your faucets to drip small amounts of water. As much as possible, do not leave them stagnant, or else they will freeze!
  • In addition to the above tip, you can use a tub to collect the dripping water. The sound might be irritating but be ensured that this will be worth your money.
  • Consider a portable space heater or electric heating pad aside from your fireplace to melt the ice that froze your pipes. Do not think about your heating bill as this technique is not that costly.
  • For your sprinkler systems, it is better to switch them off first during cold weather.
  • If you are on a tight budget and you want to insulate your pipe in your own way, you can try using blankets, towels, or some thick old newspapers.
  • Cabinet doors and garage doors should always be kept closed. If you have open areas in your home, find a way to have them secured to avoid cold air or wind from entering your home.

The best way to prevent frozen pipes is by insulating them. If you want to insulate your pipes properly, you can call a plumbing expert. If you want to insulate them on your own, you can do that as well!

Summer and Pipe Bursting

The bursting of pipes does not only occur during cold weather. In summer, bursting may happen too! At severe temperatures, pipes are prone to bursting. This is the reason why it is very important to balance the temperature inside and outside your home.

In order to avoid the bursting of pipes during summer, you should always check your plumbing system if you do not know how you can hire an expert to do so.

Final Thoughts

Indeed, it is normal to experience frozen pipes due to cold weather. Usually, temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius can freeze your pipes. But, below -6 degrees, your pipes can burst. However, this event can be prevented as long as you insulate your pipes using high-quality materials.

Aside from temperature, other causes of freezing and bursting pipes are the location of your residence. If you reside in a country with cold weather, expect frequent pipe-freezing if you do not have proper insulation.

Whenever freezing occurs, you can do many techniques and use different tools that are available inside your home.

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As a seasoned expert in plumbing and home maintenance, I've encountered various scenarios related to pipes, freezing, and maintenance. My hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge enable me to shed light on the concepts discussed in the article you provided.

The article primarily focuses on the reasons pipes freeze, the signs of frozen pipes, the distinction between freezing and bursting, and preventive measures to avoid such issues. Let's delve into each concept:

  1. Reasons Why Pipes Freeze:

    • Temperature: Pipes freeze when the temperature drops, with the critical point for indoor pipes being around -6 degrees Celsius.
    • Geographical Location: Northern areas are more prone to freezing due to consistently colder weather, necessitating better insulation.
    • Insulation Quality: Well-insulated pipes resist freezing even at extreme temperatures, while poorly insulated pipes can freeze within 3 hours of exposure.
    • Location of Pipes: Pipes without access to heaters or radiators are more susceptible to freezing, particularly those in uninsulated areas like attics, basem*nts, crawl spaces, and outdoors.
    • Material Quality: Higher quality insulation materials decrease the likelihood of pipes freezing.
  2. Signs of Frozen Pipes:

    • Low Water Supply: Reduced water flow or pressure during colder months.
    • Smelly Drains and Faucets: Unpleasant odors may indicate damaged pipes.
    • Visible Outdoor Frozen Pipes: A clear indication that other pipes may be affected.
  3. Pipes Freezing Vs. Pipes Bursting:

    • Pipes Freezing: Refers to the formation of ice in the pipes, which can be remedied by using safe methods like an electric hair dryer.
    • Pipes Bursting: Occurs when the temperature drops below -6 degrees Celsius, leading to cracks and leaks, requiring replacement of the damaged section.
  4. How to Prevent Freezing of Pipes:

    • Temperature Balance: Maintain a balanced indoor temperature.
    • Main Water Valve: Turn off the main water valve when leaving for a vacation.
    • Faucet Dripping: Allow faucets to drip during cold weather to prevent stagnation.
    • Space Heaters: Use portable heaters or electric heating pads to thaw frozen pipes.
    • Insulation: Properly insulate pipes using high-quality materials or seek professional help.
  5. Summer and Pipe Bursting:

    • Pipes can burst in summer at extreme temperatures, emphasizing the importance of temperature balance both inside and outside the home.
    • Regular checks of the plumbing system are recommended to prevent summer pipe bursting.

In conclusion, the article provides comprehensive insights into understanding, preventing, and addressing issues related to frozen pipes. It emphasizes the importance of insulation, temperature control, and proactive measures to ensure the integrity of the plumbing system throughout the year.

How Cold Can Cause Pipes To Freeze? (Signs & Preventions) (2024)

FAQs

How Cold Can Cause Pipes To Freeze? (Signs & Preventions)? ›

Your pipes are at risk of freezing any time temperatures drop below 32°F. However, it's much more common for pipes to freeze when temperatures dip below 20°F. The longer the weather remains below freezing, the more likely it is your pipes can freeze if not properly protected and winterized.

How do I know if my pipes are at risk of freezing? ›

Pipes in unheated areas such as unfinished basem*nts, crawl spaces, attics and garages are particularly susceptible to freezing. Check in these areas for leaks and pooled water. Any exposed pipes that have frost, condensation or bulging sections are likely frozen.

How cold does it have to be to worry about pipes freezing? ›

Weather To Watch Out For

This is why it's crucial to check that your home is insulated correctly to help prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. The weather you should keep an eye out for is when it becomes 22 degrees or lower outside for a total of six or more consecutive hours.

What temperature should a house be to prevent pipes from freezing? ›

Leave the Heat On

But while a lower temperature may reduce your heating bill, it could mean disaster if a cold temperatures hit, and your pipes freeze and burst. This doesn't mean you have to keep your house as warm as normal — any temperature 55 degrees or higher is appropriate to keep your pipes safe.

Will pipes freeze if house is at 50 degrees? ›

Ideally, the lowest you want to keep your thermostat set at is 50 degrees, but heating is expensive. According to Thompson, the absolute lowest you can go is 40 degrees, because your pipes will start freezing at 39 degrees.

Can water pipes freeze but not burst? ›

Although common, frozen pipes do not always burst. However, the ice can increase this risk when it thaws and is usually worsened as it raises pressure further which makes pipe bursting common near winter's end or springtime. Furthermore, the more water flowing through the pipe, the greater chance of rupture.

How long can pipes stay frozen without bursting? ›

Pipes typically burst when exposed to extremely low temperatures for an extended period of time (anywhere from 1-3 days depending on temperature). This is especially true for pipes located on exterior walls. A frozen pipe is likely to burst when any water or liquid trapped within it freezes and begins to expand.

Will pipes freeze if house is at 60 degrees? ›

The ideal temperature would be around 55 to 60 degrees. This will be warm enough to keep pipes from freezing. This might seem too much for some homeowners due to the added costs in their expenses. However, a higher utility bill will still be cheaper compared to what you will spend if your pipes freeze and burst.

Can pipes freeze in one night? ›

Can pipes freeze in one night? Pipes can freeze in one night, depending on the temperature and location of your pipes. If the temperature is below 20 degrees, your pipes could freeze in under six hours. Well-insulated pipes might take longer to freeze, but you should follow local guidelines for preventing frozen pipes.

Does running water keep pipes from freezing? ›

When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.

How do you prevent pipe burst in the winter? ›

Wrap pipes with heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables. Be sure to follow all manufacturers' installation and operation instructions. Seal leaks that allow cold air inside, near where pipes are located (i.e. around electrical wiring, dryer vents, other pipes), with caulk or insulation.

Will pipes freeze if house is 65 degrees? ›

Keep the house heated to a minimum of 65 degrees. The temperature inside the walls - where the pipes are located - is substantially colder than the walls themselves. A temperature lower than 65 degrees will not keep the inside walls from freezing. Keep cupboard doors open below sinks.

Will pipes freeze if thermostat is at 55? ›

ANSWER: Anywhere from 55-62 degrees will keep your pipes from freezing while cutting your heating bill dramatically. PROCESS: While the weather outside is frightful and inside is so delightful, sooner or later you'll have to brave the blizzard and leave the house.

At what temperature do pipes burst? ›

This finding was supported by a survey of 71 plumbers practic- ing in southern states, in which the consensus was that burst- pipe problems began to appear when temperatures fell into the teens. However, freezing incidents can occur when the tem- perature remains above 20 degrees F.

Where do pipes freeze first? ›

Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.

At what temp do pipes freeze and burst? ›

This finding was supported by a survey of 71 plumbers practic- ing in southern states, in which the consensus was that burst- pipe problems began to appear when temperatures fell into the teens. However, freezing incidents can occur when the tem- perature remains above 20 degrees F.

How long at what temperature do pipes freeze? ›

Pipes can freeze at temperatures below 32 degrees, but most insulated pipes start to freeze at temperatures below 20 degrees, according to Angi, a website that provides information on home improvement projects. If a cold snap lasts for more than four to six hours, your pipes could burst, according to Angi.

Will pipes freeze at 40 degrees? ›

If the temperature drops below 40 degrees, frost may be getting close to your service line and you could have an impending freeze up.

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