As winter approaches in University Place, Washington, homeowners must prepare for the drop in temperatures—and one of the most costly and frustrating issues that can arise is frozen pipes. A frozen pipe can burst, causing thousands of dollars in water damage and serious disruption to your home. Fortunately, with a few proactive steps, you can prevent this seasonal plumbing problem.
This comprehensive guide by Einstein Pros will walk you through the causes, prevention tips, warning signs, and what to do if your pipes freeze.
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
When water inside your pipes is exposed to temperatures below 32°F (0°C), it can freeze and expand. This expansion increases pressure inside the pipe, which can lead to cracks or full bursts, especially in uninsulated or poorly heated areas of your home. Pipes most vulnerable to freezing include:
- Outdoor hose bibs
- Water supply lines in unheated interiors (garages, basements, crawlspaces, attics)
- Pipes running against exterior walls with little or no insulation
The Risks of Frozen Pipes
The American Red Cross warns that a burst pipe can cause upwards of $5,000 in water damage, depending on the location and severity of the break (Red Cross Pipe Freezing Tips).
Aside from costly repairs, frozen pipes can also result in:
- Loss of running water
- Mold growth
- Structural damage to flooring, drywall, and insulation
- Disruption of heat supply if radiators or boilers are affected
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in University Place
University Place sees cold, wet winters with temperatures that often dip into freezing territory. Use the following tips to safeguard your home:
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Use pipe insulation or heat tape on plumbing located in:
- Unheated crawlspaces or basements
- Garages or sheds
- Exterior walls
Foam insulation is inexpensive and available at most hardware stores. For long-term protection, consider professional installation by our licensed University Place plumbers.
2. Seal Drafts and Openings
Check for air leaks around windows, doors, vents, and pipe entry points. Seal with caulk or weather stripping to prevent cold air from reaching indoor pipes.
3. Let Faucets Drip During Cold Spells
A slight trickle of water can relieve pressure and keep water flowing. Focus on faucets connected to vulnerable or exterior-facing pipes. Even a slow drip can make a difference.
4. Keep Your Heat On (Even When Away)
If you’re leaving town during winter, keep the thermostat set no lower than 55°F. Sudden cold snaps can freeze pipes quickly when the interior temperature drops too low.
5. Open Cabinet Doors
Pipes under kitchen and bathroom sinks are often against exterior walls. Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate and reduce the risk of freezing.
6. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Before freezing weather hits:
- Disconnect garden hoses
- Shut off outdoor water valves (if available)
- Drain the line completely
If your home doesn’t have frost-proof outdoor faucets, consider upgrading. Einstein Pros offers faucet replacement and winterization services for long-term protection.
How to Tell if Your Pipes Are Frozen
Some signs include:
- Little to no water coming from faucets
- Frost on visible pipes
- Strange smells (blocked pipes can cause sewer odors)
- Unusual sounds when turning on taps
If you suspect a pipe is frozen, act fast to avoid a burst.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
- Turn off the main water supply to prevent flooding if the pipe bursts.
- Open the faucet connected to the frozen pipe.
- Apply heat with a space heater, hair dryer, or warm towels (never use an open flame).
- Call a professional plumber if you can’t locate or safely thaw the pipe.
Need help? Einstein Pros is ready to assist with frozen pipe repair and emergency plumbing services in University Place.
Long-Term Solutions to Consider
Pipe Relocation
If pipes freeze regularly, relocating them away from exterior walls may be necessary. Our licensed plumbers can assess your system and recommend practical solutions.
Insulated Outdoor Faucets
Frost-free hose bibs are a small upgrade that can save major hassle each winter.
Whole-Home Winterization
Ask us about a complete plumbing winterization package to prep your home each fall.
Stay Ahead of the Cold with Einstein Pros
Don’t wait until a pipe bursts to take action. Einstein Pros has decades of experience serving University Place homeowners with trustworthy, high-quality plumbing services. From pipe insulation to emergency repairs, our licensed plumbers are available year-round to help you protect your home.
Explore our full list of plumbing services in University Place or contact us today to schedule a winter readiness inspection.