01/21/2025
Severe Freeze Warning!!!
A Message from Plumbing Paramedic 911
From all of us here at Plumbing Paramedic 911, we want to remind you that we’re here when you need us. We’re as prepared as possible for the days ahead, but we sincerely hope our services won’t be required. Please stay safe, stay warm, and be patient with those out in the cold fixing broken pipes. To help you prepare, here’s a quick guide with tips for minimizing the risk of freeze-related plumbing issues.
It may seem wasteful, but during extreme cold, let your faucets run a small stream on both the hot and cold sides for the next few nights and parts of the day.
Unless you’re living under a heated rock, you already know it’s freezing outside. With the temperature set to drop even more, it’s time to double-check your home’s defenses. Extreme cold can freeze even protected pipes, so here are some key tips to help keep your plumbing safe:
Keep Pipes Warm and Protected
Controlled Heated Spaces: The best way to prevent freezing pipes is to keep them in a controlled, heated space. Pipes exposed to the cold can’t fend for themselves—they need insulation on all sides.
Stop the Wind: Wind is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to freezing pipes. Even insulated pipes can freeze if wind chills hit them directly. Seal off areas where wind might creep in, such as:
Foundation vents
Holes in the foundation
Special Attention to Outdoor Plumbing
Disconnect Hoses: Remove hoses from outdoor spigots—this is often the first thing to freeze and can cause damage to your plumbing system.
Cover and Insulate Faucets: Use faucet covers or insulation to protect outdoor spigots.
Well Houses and Crawlspaces
Insulate and Seal: Make sure well houses, rocks, and pipes in crawlspaces are fully insulated and sealed from wind. Closing foundation vents is key to reducing drafts.
Add Heat Sources: Carefully position a small space heater or a light bulb near critical components like pressure switches. These can help but must be used with caution to avoid fire hazards.
Heat Tape: This is a safer, more reliable option to keep pipes warm.
Important: Never wrap pressure switches with blankets as they can spark when they activate.
Inside the Home
Open Cabinet Doors: Let the warm air from your home circulate around pipes under sinks, especially those on exterior walls.
Attic Pipes: If your pipes run through the attic, make sure they’re insulated. Even a small exposed section can freeze.
Water Heaters and Well Pumps
Pressure Relief Valves: These valves prevent pressure buildup, but if ice forms around them, they can malfunction and cause flooding. Protect them from wind and ice buildup without covering them completely. They still need to function properly.
A Word of Caution
During extreme cold, even well-insulated pipes can freeze. Two years ago, we had over 486 calls in just three days due to freeze damage. Homes—new or old—are equally at risk during weather events like this. Protecting your home now could save you from costly repairs later.
If you need help winterizing your plumbing or if you suspect a freeze-related issue, don’t hesitate to call us at Plumbing Paramedic 911. Stay safe, stay warm, and let’s get through this cold snap together!