Frozen Pipes? Not So Nice! Beat Winter Water Woes Before They Strike

From State Farm

Photo courtesy of Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

According to State Farm’s latest data from 2024 through June 2025, over 20,000 claims related to frozen pipes were filed nationwide, with total paid losses exceeding $628 million. The average claim cost exceeded $30,000.

In Pennsylvania, claims related to frozen pipes and water damage totaled $17.4 million, ranking the state 11th in the nation.

Frozen pipes? Not so nice! Beat winter water woes before they strike!

When temperatures drop below freezing (32°F), your home’s pipes — whether plastic or copper — are at risk of freezing. Even a small crack, just 1/8 inch, can leak over 250 gallons of water daily, leading to flooding, structural damage, and mold growth.

Protecting your home from frozen pipe damage is important.

Taking preventive steps can help you avoid costly repairs and protect your home this winter.

How to prevent frozen pipes

Frozen pipes usually result from sudden temperature drops, poor insulation, or thermostats set too low. Here’s what you can do to safeguard your home:

Insulate exposed pipes: Cover pipes in crawl spaces, attics, and other vulnerable areas — even if your climate rarely freezes — to shield them from cold temperatures.
Use heat tape or heat cables: Wrap pipes with thermostatically controlled heat tape approved by trusted organizations like Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Make sure to use products designed for your pipe’s location (indoor or outdoor).
Seal air leaks: Block cold air from entering near pipes by sealing gaps around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes with caulk or insulation.
Disconnect garden hoses: Remove hoses and, if possible, shut off and drain indoor valves connected to outdoor faucets.
Let faucets drip: Allow a slow trickle of warm and cold water overnight to help prevent freezing.
Maintain thermostat settings: Keep your home’s temperature above 55°F, even when you’re away for extended periods.
Open cabinet doors: Allow warm air to circulate around uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

What to do if pipes freeze

If you suspect frozen pipes, take these precautions:

Call a plumber: If no water flows when you turn on faucets, leave them open and contact a professional.
Avoid open flames: Never use a torch or open flame to thaw pipes — it’s a serious fire hazard.
Use a hair dryer safely: If safe, gently warm pipes starting near the faucet and moving toward colder sections. Ensure no standing water or flammable materials are nearby.
Shut off water supply: If pipes burst or your leak detector alerts you, turn off the main water valve. Make sure everyone in your household knows its location and how to operate it. Keep faucets open to relieve pressure.

Taking these steps can help you avoid costly damage and keep your home safe during cold weather.