Short answer
Insulate pipes in unheated spaces, disconnect garden hoses, keep the heat on, open cabinet doors on exterior walls during freezes and let a faucet drip. Know where your main shutoff is before you need it.
Before winter
A little preparation prevents most frozen pipes.
- Insulate pipes in crawl spaces, attics, garages and exterior walls
- Disconnect and drain garden hoses; shut off and drain outdoor spigots
- Seal gaps where cold air reaches pipes
- Find and label your main water shutoff
During a freeze
Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night. Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls. Let a faucet drip. If you're traveling, keep the heat at 55°F or higher.
If a pipe freezes
Open the faucet and warm the pipe with a hair dryer or space heater; never an open flame. If it bursts, follow what to do when a pipe bursts.
Questions
At what temperature do pipes freeze?
Pipes in unheated areas are at risk when outdoor temperatures fall below about 20°F, especially for several hours.
Does dripping a faucet really help?
Yes. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and an open faucet relieves pressure.
This guide is general information, not professional, legal or insurance advice. Follow your insurer's instructions and local codes, and put safety first.