Maintenance
How to Prevent Pipes From Freezing
By David Golovin · September 24, 2026 · 2 min read
Pipes burst when water freezes and expands inside them. Repairs average $5,000 or more. The prevention costs a few dollars.
$5,000+
Average burst pipe repair
IBHS estimate
28°F
Temperature where freeze risk spikes
$0.50/ft
Foam pipe insulation at hardware stores
Source: Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety
Four steps that stop a freeze
Insulate exposed pipes
Focus on crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls.
Let faucets drip
Moving water resists freezing. Run both hot and cold sides.
Keep heat above 55°F
Even when traveling. A steady thermostat prevents surprise freezes.
Know your shutoff
Every adult in the home should know where the main valve is.
If a pipe bursts anyway
Turn off the main water shutoff immediately. Know where it is before temperatures drop, not after.
FAQ
At what temperature do pipes freeze?
Pipes can begin to freeze when outdoor temperatures fall below 28 degrees Fahrenheit for six or more hours, especially in unheated spaces or along exterior walls.
Should you let faucets drip in cold weather?
Yes. Moving water resists freezing and relieves pressure if a freeze does occur, reducing the chance the pipe splits. Run both hot and cold sides on faucets along exterior walls.
How much does pipe insulation cost?
Foam pipe insulation costs about $0.50 per linear foot at most hardware stores. A typical crawl space or garage job runs $50 to $200 in materials.