Frozen Pipes in Winter? How to Avoid a Costly Plumbing Emergency in New Jersey

Winter in New Jersey can bring frigid temperatures, and one of the biggest plumbing disasters homeowners face during this time is frozen pipes. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, putting immense pressure on the pipe walls. This can cause pipes to burst, leading to severe water damage, costly repairs, and major disruptions in your home.
The good news? Frozen pipes are preventable! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Why pipes freeze and which pipes are most at risk
✅ How to prevent pipes from freezing in winter
✅ What to do if your pipes freeze
✅ When to call an emergency plumber

By taking the right steps now, you can protect your home from expensive plumbing emergencies this winter.

Why Do Pipes Freeze?
Water freezes at 32°F (0°C), but pipes are most at risk when temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C) for an extended period. Pipes freeze because of a combination of low temperatures, inadequate insulation, and reduced water flow.
Which Pipes Are Most Likely to Freeze?
Not all pipes are equally vulnerable to freezing. The most at-risk pipes include:
🚰 Exposed pipes – Pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, attics, and crawl spaces.
🚰 Outdoor pipes – Garden hoses, sprinkler lines, and exterior faucets.
🚰 Pipes along exterior walls – Plumbing near poorly insulated walls is especially vulnerable.
🚰 Unoccupied homes – If the heat is turned off or set too low, pipes can freeze faster.
Knowing which pipes are at risk allows you to take proactive steps before the temperatures drop.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Winter
Prevention is always better than an expensive plumbing repair bill. Here’s what you can do to protect your pipes before winter strikes:
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

• Wrap pipes in foam pipe insulation to keep them warm.
• Use heat tape or heat cables for pipes in unheated areas.
• Install extra insulation in attics, crawl spaces, and basements.

2. Keep Your Home Warm

• Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (13°C), even if you’re away.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around the pipes.
• Seal gaps or cracks near pipes to prevent cold air from entering.

3. Let Faucets Drip

• Running water through the pipes helps prevent freezing.
• Letting a faucet drip slightly can relieve pressure in the pipes.

4. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

• Shut off and drain exterior faucets and sprinkler systems before winter.
• Store garden hoses indoors to prevent freezing.

5. Keep Garage Doors Closed
If your water lines run through the garage, keep the doors closed to retain heat inside.
By following these tips, you can significantly lower the risk of frozen pipes and avoid emergency plumbing repairs.

What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
Despite all precautions, pipes can still freeze. If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle of water comes out, your pipes may be frozen. Here’s what to do next:
1. Locate the Frozen Section

• Check pipes along exterior walls or in unheated areas first.
• Look for frost, bulging sections, or a layer of ice on pipes.

2. Try to Thaw the Pipe (If It Hasn’t Burst)🚨
Warning: Never use an open flame (blowtorch, propane heater, etc.) to thaw pipes—it’s a major fire hazard.
Instead, try these safer methods:
✔️ Use a hairdryer to apply gentle heat to the frozen section.
✔️ Wrap the pipe in warm towels soaked in hot water.
✔️ Place a space heater nearby (but not directly on the pipe).

3. Keep Faucets Open
As you thaw the pipe, keep the affected faucet open. Running water helps melt the ice inside.
4. If the Pipe Bursts, Shut Off the Water Immediately
A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water per hour, causing severe flooding. Shut off your main water valve right away and call an emergency plumber.

When to Call an Emergency Plumber
If you suspect frozen pipes but can’t locate or thaw them, or if you notice water leaks, call an emergency plumber immediately. A professional plumber can:
🔧 Use specialized equipment to safely thaw frozen pipes.
🔧 Repair burst or damaged pipes to prevent leaks.
🔧 Assess insulation and recommend long-term solutions to prevent future issues.
Waiting too long can result in serious damage to your home. Don’t take the risk—act fast!

The Cost of Ignoring Frozen Pipes
If frozen pipes are ignored, they can expand, crack, and eventually burst, leading to:
💰 Expensive repairs – Fixing burst pipes and water damage can cost thousands of dollars.
💰 Flooded basements – A burst pipe can quickly cause significant water damage.
💰 Mold and mildew growth – Excess moisture from leaks leads to mold issues.
💰 No running water – Frozen pipes can completely cut off your water supply.
Preventing frozen pipes is far cheaper and easier than dealing with a plumbing emergency.

Protect Your Home This Winter
New Jersey winters can be brutal, but frozen pipes don’t have to be a problem if you take the right precautions. Remember to:
✅ Insulate exposed pipes
✅ Let faucets drip during freezing temperatures
✅ Keep your thermostat above 55°F
✅ Shut off and drain outdoor water sources
✅ Call a plumber if you suspect frozen pipes
If you ever need emergency plumbing services in New Jersey, don’t hesitate to call NJ Emergency Plumber.
​Our team is available 24/7 to handle frozen pipes, burst pipes, and other urgent plumbing issues.
📞 973-604-3856
🌐 NJ Emergency Plumber