What Temperature Causes Pipes to Freeze? Essential Tips to Prevent Damage

Learn the critical temperature that causes pipes to freeze and discover effective prevention methods.

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Pipes can freeze and potentially burst at 20°F (-6.67°C) or below. To prevent freezing, ensure your pipes are well-insulated, especially those exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines. Inside, keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines there, and open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, particularly if your pipes are located in exterior walls.

FAQs & Answers

  1. At what temperature should I start worrying about frozen pipes? You should start worrying about frozen pipes when the temperature drops to 20°F (-6.67°C) or below.
  2. How can I prevent my pipes from freezing? To prevent pipes from freezing, ensure they are well-insulated, keep garage doors closed, and open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation.
  3. Which pipes are most at risk of freezing? Pipes that are most at risk of freezing include those exposed to severe cold, such as outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.
  4. What should I do if my pipes freeze? If your pipes freeze, turn off the water supply, and slowly thaw the pipes with a hairdryer or heat lamp, avoiding open flames.