How to Prevent Frozen Pipes During a Queens Winter

When temperatures drop below freezing, pipes in exterior walls, unheated basements, and crawl spaces are at risk of freezing. And when frozen water expands inside a pipe, it can crack or burst the pipe — leading to serious water damage when it thaws. Here's how to protect your plumbing.

Insulate exposed pipes. Pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install on visible pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and along exterior walls. Focus on the pipes most vulnerable to cold — those nearest to outside walls and in unheated areas.

Let faucets drip during extreme cold. A slow trickle of water keeps water moving through the pipes, which makes freezing less likely. It's a small water cost that can prevent a major repair bill.

Keep your thermostat consistent. Don't lower the heat dramatically at night during cold snaps — the savings aren't worth the risk to your pipes. Maintain a consistent temperature, especially in rooms with plumbing on exterior walls.

Open cabinet doors under sinks. In kitchens and bathrooms, opening the cabinet doors lets warm air reach pipes under the sink, especially those on exterior walls. This is particularly helpful overnight when temperatures drop.

Seal gaps and cracks. Cold air can reach pipes through gaps around pipes, vents, and wiring. Sealing these openings with caulk or spray foam keeps cold air out and warm air in.

If a pipe does freeze, don't try to thaw it with an open flame. Use a hair dryer or warm towels, starting near the faucet and working toward the frozen section. If you can't locate the freeze or the pipe has burst, shut off the main water valve and call a plumber immediately.

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