01/22/2026
BE PREPARED!!
Please read this article from the IICRC - Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification about preventing frozen pipes in our home.
Give us a call if you have questions or if you do experience a broken water line and have water damage in your home.
All Care is a Member of the IICRC.
To prevent frozen pipes during cold weather, the IICRC and restoration professionals recommend insulating exposed pipes in unheated areas (basements, attics, garages), sealing gaps near pipes, keeping the thermostat at least 55°F, opening cabinet doors to allow warm air circulation, and letting faucets drip to maintain water movement.
Key Prevention Steps:
Insulate Pipes: Use foam sleeves or heat tape on exposed pipes in crawl spaces, attics, and garages.
Maintain Heat: Keep the thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when away.
Drip Faucets: Allow a slow, steady trickle of both hot and cold water from faucets, especially during extreme cold, to keep water moving.
Circulate Warm Air: Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to reach pipes under sinks.
Seal Gaps: Use caulk or insulation to seal cracks in exterior walls, especially where pipes enter the home.
Disconnect Hoses: Remove and drain garden hoses and turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets.
If Pipes Freeze:
Locate Shut-off: Know where your main water shut-off valve is to stop flooding immediately if a pipe bursts.
Thaw Safely: Use a hair dryer or electric heating pad to gently thaw frozen pipes, avoiding open flames.
If freezing results in damage, contact an IICRC certified firm for professional water damage restoration.
