Idaho winters regularly bring temperatures well below freezing, and frozen pipes are one of the most common and most costly winter plumbing emergencies. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands, and the pressure can cause the pipe to crack or burst, leading to significant water damage when the ice thaws.
The most vulnerable pipes are those in unheated areas: crawlspaces, attics, garages, and exterior walls. Pipes near exterior doors, windows, and dryer vents are also at higher risk because of cold air infiltration.
Prevention step 1: Insulate exposed pipes. Pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install. Focus on pipes in crawlspaces, attics, garages, and any unheated areas. For added protection in colder areas, use heat tape or heat cable.
Prevention step 2: Seal cold air gaps. Check around pipes where they enter your home for gaps or cracks that let cold air in. Seal these with caulk or spray foam to keep cold air away from pipes.
Prevention step 3: Keep your home warm. Maintain your thermostat at 55°F or above, even when you're away. Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to let warm air reach pipes. If you're going on a winter vacation, don't turn your heat off completely.
Prevention step 4: Let faucets drip. During extreme cold snaps (below 20°F), let faucets on exterior walls drip slightly. Moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water.
If a pipe does freeze: Don't use a blowtorch or open flame. Use a hair dryer, heat lamp, or warm towels. Open the faucet so melting water can flow. If you can't thaw it or suspect a pipe has already burst, call Revolution Plumbing immediately.