How To Keep Pipes From Freezing In Winter?
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    Pipes freezing in Winter July 13, 2025

    Winter pipe freezes usually come with abnormally frigid climates, but the reality is that houses in moderate or mild climates are frequently more susceptible. This is because pipes in such climates typically aren’t insulated in the same manner, and residents aren’t always prepared for a sudden temperature shift. A cold snap can freeze water in your pipes, cause it to expand, and eventually burst, resulting in expensive water damage and emergency plumbing repairs.

    Whether your home is in a frigid region or a temperate one like San Ramon, you need to guard your pipes. In this blog, we’ll provide you with easy and helpful tips for keeping your pipes safe during the winter season, regardless of the severity of your climate. And don’t forget, in case you ever experience frozen or burst pipes, Magnificent Plumbing & Rooter offers emergency plumbing services and 24 hour plumbing assistance to get your house back in shape in no time.

    Pipes Freeze

    Why Do Pipes Freeze (Even in a Mild Climate)?

    Pipes generally freeze when the temperature is below 32°F (0°C). In warmer climates, houses tend to be constructed with less winterisation so that pipes can be uninsulated from the outside or located in poorly insulated areas, such as attics, crawl spaces, or garages.

    Even a brief freeze can result in disaster. As water freezes and expands, it exerts pressure on your pipes. This can create cracks or even outright bursts, resulting in flooding and thousands of dollars’ worth of damage. In that case, having a plumber emergency response team readily accessible becomes crucial.

    Tip 1: Insulate Exposed Pipes

    One of the most cost-effective and straightforward ways to safeguard your plumbing is to use pipe insulation. Fibreglass pipe wraps or foam sleeves can reduce heat loss and help maintain water temperature.

    Prioritise insulating:

    • Pipes in unheated spaces (garages, basements, crawl spaces)
    • Outdoor hose bibs and sprinkler lines
    • Pipes under bathroom and kitchen sinks

    For peace of mind, have 24/7 plumbers from Magnificent Plumbing & Rooter inspect and insulate hard-to-reach or vulnerable areas. Our 24 hour plumbing service team ensures your pipes are winter-ready, no matter the weather.

    Tip 2: Seal Cracks and Openings

    Cold air can seep in through even the tiniest openings in walls or around pipe intrusion points. Seal gaps where pipes come into your house with caulk or spray foam, particularly around outdoor faucets or in the basement.

    If you’re unsure where cold drafts are entering, schedule an appointment with our emergency plumbing experts. We’ll identify all areas of concern and provide you with solutions promptly.

    Tip 3: Keep a Drip Running

    During freezing nights, keeping a slow trickle of water running through faucets linked to exposed pipes can prevent freezing. Running water, at whatever speed, relieves pressure within the pipes and prevents the water from stagnating and freezing.

    This trick works particularly well for pipes on outside walls. If one of your faucets suddenly stops, it could be a sign that a pipe is frozen. Call our 24-hour plumbing crew right away for a plumber emergency inspection before the pipe bursts.

    Tip 4: Open Cabinet Doors

    Open the cabinets below your kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow warm air to circulate the pipes. This is particularly useful in houses that have poorly insulated walls or pipes running near the outside.

    Ensure that pets and small children can’t reach any toxic substances within those cabinets. And if you’re concerned about cold spots in your house, our 24 hour service plumbers can suggest further insulation or re-routing options.

    Tip 5: Turn Off and Drain Outdoor Hoses

    Before winter, drain outdoor faucets and disconnect garden hoses. Water in these lines can freeze and become trapped, backing up into the pipes inside the house and causing them to burst.

    Install heat tape, heating cables, or insulated covers for added protection. Need assistance winterising your outdoor plumbing? Contact 24/7 plumbers at Magnificent Plumbing & Rooter—we’ll get your system up and running quickly and efficiently.

    Tip 6: Install Heat Tape or Heating Cables

    For exceptionally vulnerable pipes that are prone to freezing, heat tape or heating cables can help keep them consistently warm. Electric, these options wrap around your pipes and heat up when the temperature falls.

    Installation can be confusing, so it’s better to trust a 24-hour plumber. Our trained experts at Magnificent Plumbing & Rooter have years of experience with heating cable installation and can ensure they are correctly and safely installed.

    Tip 7: Keep the Thermostat Constant

    Don’t significantly decrease your thermostat when you’re away or at night in the winter. Indoor temperature drops can raise the chances of pipe freezing. Attempt to maintain your thermostat at 55°F or higher, even if you’re leaving town.

    Winter travels? Have our emergency plumbing professionals inspect your home for a quick once-over before you leave. We’ll inspect the pipes and advise on any necessary precautions.

    What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze?

    If you turn on a faucet and get only a trickle—or nothing at all—your pipe is frozen. Here’s what to do:

    • Turn off the main water supply to prevent flooding if the pipe bursts.
    • Open nearby faucets to relieve pressure and help thaw the pipes.
    • Apply gentle heat with a space heater, hair dryer, or hot towels (never an open flame).
    • Call a professional right away.

    At Magnificent Plumbing & Rooter, our emergency plumber team is available 24/7 to handle frozen or burst pipes. We’ll quickly assess the situation, repair the damage, and restore your home to its normal state.

    Emergency leak repair

    Protect Your Home with Magnificent Plumbing & Rooter

    Don’t be surprised by winter—Magnificent Plumbing & Rooter is the trusted crew for pipe protection, inspections, and emergency plumbing repair. Our 24-hour plumbing service is here to support you, so you never feel out of control in an emergency, from a midnight burst pipe to emergency leak repair on a holiday.

    We’re proud to provide:

    • Emergency plumbing response when you need it
    • Dependable plumber emergency assistance with fully equipped trucks
    • Professional 24-hour plumbing repair for every home and business
    • Honest, expert 24/7 plumbers who do it right the first time

    Contact Magnificent Plumbing & Rooter today to winterise your home’s plumbing and prevent costly damage. Your pipes deserve the best care—and we’re here to give it to you!

    Also read: Understanding Hard Water: Effects on Your Plumbing and Solutions

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