Here's What Frozen Pipes Can Cost You

Dealing with frozen water pipes isn't just inconvenient — it also can be downright expensive. Fortunately, taking a few preventative steps before the cold hits can save you the hassle and cost of having a pipe freeze, crack and potentially cause thousands of dollars in water damage this winter.

Here's what you should know about how to keep your pipes from freezing, what to do if you suspect a problem and who to call ASAP for damage control. Consider this the frozen pipe primer you can't afford to miss.

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How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Leave the heat on: If you're going to be away from your house in the winter, it's tempting to turn the thermostat way down to save energy. But don't let your home get too cold, or your pipes could freeze while you're away. Experts recommend setting the temperature of your home to no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also open the cabinets underneath your sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes.

Let the faucets drip: In extreme weather, you can leave your faucets dripping to help prevent pipes from freezing. By keeping the faucet on ⁠— even if only at a trickle ⁠— you keep the water moving and keep it from freezing.

Insulate interior pipes: Adding insulation is an inexpensive way to prevent costly damage. For interior pipes, you can use an X-ACTO knife or similar utility knife to cut insulation to match the length of each pipe so it wraps around just right.

Insulate outdoor faucets: With faucets that are outside, installing an exterior faucet cover protects pipes from freezing temperatures. Make sure the water supply leading to the outdoor faucet is shut off, any remaining water is drained and all hoses are disconnected before installation.

Turn off the water to your house: If you're going away for an extended period of time, you might want to consider shutting off your home's water supply and draining the pipes. Any water left in the pipes could freeze and crack them, so it's best to hire a professional plumber to ensure there's no water left in the system. When shutting off your home's water supply, you should also consult with a plumber about what needs to be done for your heating system. HVAC systems that include a boiler might need to be drained of water or filled with antifreeze to ensure proper winterization.

According to HomeAdvisor's True Cost Guide, hiring a plumber typically costs between $175 and $450. Labor accounts for most variations on cost, so the more complex your plumbing is, the costlier the project will be.

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What To Do If You Suspect A Frozen Pipe

Thawing pipes — and ones that are only partially frozen — often leak before they burst. So if you spot a leaking pipe, act quickly! Turn off the water immediately and call a plumber. According to HomeAdvisor's True Cost Guide, leaking pipes cost an average of $150 to $350 to repair. This doesn't include repairing any surrounding drywall after the fix, which can cost an additional $250 to $750 depending on the size and location of the damage.

Another sign you could have a frozen pipe is if little or no water comes out of your faucet when it’s turned on. When this is the case in the colder months of the year, the pipe leading to the faucet could be frozen.

Lastly, if there's visible frost on any interior pipe, there's a very good chance it's frozen. Any time you suspect a frozen pipe, call a plumber immediately. They may be able to isolate the broken pipe to avoid further damage and even costlier repairs.

Dealing With Water Damage

When a frozen pipe bursts, water damage is inevitable. According to HomeAdvisor's True Cost Guide, cleanup costs can be tens of thousands of dollars (or more) depending on the extent of the damage. Once you have a frozen pipe, turn off the water and call in a plumber immediately.

While it's tempting to try to remove any items in the way of the water, it's best to wait for professional help to arrive. Standing water can hide dangers such as sharp debris and tripping hazards. The water will be extremely cold and could cause hypothermia, and if there are any electrical outlets, appliances, or cords in the water, there is a serious risk of electrocution.

Once the water has been removed and the pipe is no longer frozen, call a foundation specialist to assess the damage that was done to your basement walls and foundation. The longer you wait to repair any foundation damage, the worse the damage can get and the costlier it will be to fix.

According to HomeAdvisor's True Cost Guide, homeowners pay an average of $4,200 to repair foundation issues. Minor cracks can cost as little as $500 to fix, while major repairs can run you $10,000 or more.

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More Home & Garden:
How To Winterize Your House: A Simple Checklist
Winter 101: Hot Tips for Home Heating
5 Home Improvement Projects To Tackle This Winter

Sources:
Preventing Frozen Pipes
How to Prevent Freezing Pipes
Plumbing Cost Estimator
How Much Does It Cost To Waterproof A Basement Or Foundation?