As Massachusetts residents brace for another winter, the threat of frozen pipes looms large. Known for causing significant property damage, frozen pipes are a common headache during our harsh New England winters. This 2024 update aims to arm you with the latest information and strategies to protect your home and navigate insurance complexities.
While snow skiers and polar bears might love the cold and snowy winter months, all that wind and cold air can wreak havoc on us and our homes too. Winter weather can be damaging in a variety of ways.
If your home isn’t well prepared for winter, you can have many problems, including burst pipes from the frigid temperatures. If your home suffers a pipe freezing, then you face a whole host of other issues, including potential water damage.
Preventing frozen pipes is a high priority for homeowners, especially ones who have older homes that might be more at risk.
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So, what can you do to prevent water pipes from freezing? What should you do if you suspect you have a frozen pipe? Read on to learn more about how to prevent pipes from freezing and how to address if they do freeze.
How do Pipes Freeze?
Frozen pipes occur when the water inside the pipes freezes and expands, causing the pipes to become clogged and unable to transport water. This can be caused by low temperatures, poor insulation, or lack of proper heating. Frozen pipes can lead to burst pipes, causing water damage and expensive repairs. To prevent frozen pipes, it’s recommended to keep the temperature inside your home above freezing, properly insulate pipes in unheated areas, and allow a small trickle of water to flow through the pipes during cold weather. If your pipes do freeze, you can try to thaw them using a hair dryer, hot towels, or a space heater. If the pipes have already burst, turn off the water supply and contact a plumber as soon as possible.
Why Frozen Water Pipes Are a Real Problem for Your Home
You know that it’s bad if your pipes freeze. Your pipes are meant to carry water from your water source to the sinks, faucets, and toilets in your home.
The real issue is that water in a liquid state takes up less space than water when it’s frozen. Water expands when it freezes. This puts an enormous amount of pressure on the inside of your pipes, which can cause them to crack or even burst.
Have you ever seen a soda bottle or can that’s frozen? The top blows off, or the sides split. The same can happen to your pipes.
The real problem then isn’t just that your pipe doesn’t work anymore. It’s that the water that isn’t frozen will start pouring into your home.
Preventative Steps to Avoid Pipes Freezing
If you live in a climate where the winters are harsh, and the temperatures drop well below freezing, you want to take proactive steps to try to prevent your pipes from freezing. So, what can you do?
Consider your insulation status, especially in those areas of your home more exposed to cold. Consider your attic, crawl space, and basement spaces. Add insulation to these areas to help prevent them from getting too cold.
Look for areas in your home where you might have a water supply line that comes into your home from an unprotected area. This might be from a line from a swimming pool, sprinkler system, outdoor hose, or water line in a garage. Make sure you drain pipes of water that connect to outdoor hose lines in the winter.
If you have exposed pipes that face potential cold risk, consider adding insulating products like pipe sleeves to protect them.
Preventing Frozen Pipes in Winter
Once you’re in the throes of winter, you can still do some things to help prevent your pipes from freezing from the cold weather.
First, you want to consider where you might be most at risk. These will be the areas of your home that are most exposed to cold and have the most limited access to heat. This might seem obvious, but it will help you as you consider where to look.
First, if you have any water supply lines in your garage, keep your garage door closed. This is just smart anyway to help insulate your home.
Some people, in an effort to save on heating bills, like to turn the heat way down during the day when maybe you aren’t at home. During those coldest days of winter, you might keep your house heated at a higher consistent temperature. It helps to insulate those more exposed areas that are at risk for freezing.
If you can open up access to your attic, do this. It allows some heat to get up to the attic and helps protect that space if water lines run through there.
You can also do something as simple as opening up your cabinet doors so the pipes under the cabinets can get the heat from the house. You might notice how it feels colder under the sink.
Finally, if you’re worried about your pipes on the coldest days, turn each of your faucets on so they are just at a slow drip and leave them on. This means there is water moving through the pipes. Moving water is less likely to freeze up. You might waste some water but could save yourself a tremendous amount by avoiding water damage that comes from a burst pipe.
How to Tell If You Already Have a Frozen Pipe
Are you worried it may be too late and you already have a frozen pipe? There are some clues you can watch for to see if there’s a pipe already frozen.
The most obvious clue might be if you turn on the water and no water comes out. It might also just come out as a slow trickle. This would tell you somewhere; there’s a frozen pipe preventing the water from moving.
Now, you need to locate where the frozen pipe is located. Look in places where your pipes are most exposed to the elements, like under cabinets and in the basement. You might also listen to see if you hear any water dripping or running.
Start to trace your pipes and look to see if you see any condensation or water around the pipes. If you have an exposed pipe, you can also run your hands over the pipe. The frozen area should feel colder than other parts of the pipe.
Thawing Frozen Pipes
If you think you’ve located the frozen pipe, then the next step is to consider how to get it thawed.
First, you want to locate the water supply source of this pipe and turn off the water. This is especially important if it appears the pipe is cracked or burst. Once the pipe starts to unthaw, you’ll have a flow of water into your house if you don’t turn off the water first.
If you think the pipe is okay, you can start thinking about how to unthaw it. There are some differing opinions here. Some suggest it’s best to turn off the water in case the pipe suddenly does burst or crack during the unthawing process.
Others suggest turning on a faucet that the pipe leads to. Once the water starts to flow, you’ll know you have abated the freezing. If you can’t see the pipe because it’s inside the wall, the best plan might be to turn off the water temporarily. The outdoor water meter is typically where you can find the main shut-off valve.
Frozen Pipes Inside a Wall
If you suspect the frozen pipe is inside the wall, then unthawing becomes more complicated. Remember, this would most likely be the case on an exterior wall where it would be exposed to the elements on the other side.
The best thing to do in this scenario is to turn up the heat in your home. Start by warming the space up as much as possible to see if that is enough. You might also bring a space heater into the room where you suspect the freeze.
Be very mindful to follow all space heater directions for safety and never leave them unattended.
If that isn’t enough, you may have to open the wall to get more direct contact with the frozen pipe. At this point, it might be wise to contact a plumber. You don’t want to start opening walls without being sure you’ve located the correct spot of the freeze.
Thawing a Frozen Exposed Pipe
Thawing a frozen pipe that is visible is a little less complicated. This is likely to happen under a cabinet, along an exterior wall, or in a garage or basement.
To thaw the pipe, you need to get some heat to the area. You don’t want to expose your frozen pipe to an open flame of any kind, though.
Start with a blow dryer on a low or medium setting, not high. Too much heat too quickly can cause the pipe to burst. Use the blow dryer to warm the pipe slowly.
You can also bring a space heater close to the exposed pipe. Again, never leave a space heater unsupervised.
You can also get heat tape from most home improvement stores that you can wrap around the frozen pipe area to warm it slowly.
Assessing Potential Water Damage
Of course, as a homeowner, you hope you’ll find the frozen pipe and address the issue before you have damage. Unfortunately, you often realize you have a frozen pipe when a pipe bursts and you have a water problem.
Again, you want to be sure to turn off the water quickly, so it doesn’t continue to flow into your house and cause more damage. Then you’ll need to assess the damage and start the clean-up efforts.
If you have significant water damage or pipe damage, you’ll want to call your insurance company and make a claim for repairs. If you have water that has flowed into your home, it’s critical to do a proper clean-up and repair to avoid potential mold problems down the road.
Your insurance claim adjuster can help you with water mitigation and mold prevention, as well as get quotes to repair the plumbing.
Insurance Coverage and Frozen Pipes
Understanding your insurance coverage in relation to frozen pipes is crucial for homeowners in Massachusetts, where the harsh winter weather can lead to these unfortunate incidents. Here’s what you need to know about how insurance typically handles frozen pipe scenarios:
- Standard Homeowners Insurance Coverage: Generally, most standard homeowners insurance policies do cover the damage caused by frozen pipes. This coverage usually includes water damage to your home and personal property if it’s the result of pipes that have frozen and burst. However, it’s important to note that the coverage often hinges on the circumstances leading to the pipes freezing.
- Negligence and Maintenance: One key factor that insurance companies consider is whether the freezing was preventable through proper maintenance. If an insurance provider determines that the pipes froze due to homeowner negligence — such as failing to keep the house heated or not adequately insulating the pipes — they may deny the claim. Regular maintenance and taking preventive measures against freezing are essential to ensure coverage.
- Dwelling and Personal Property Coverage: The damage caused by the water from burst pipes is typically covered under the dwelling coverage portion of your homeowners policy, which helps pay for repairs to the structure of your home. Additionally, if your personal property is damaged, your personal property coverage can help pay to repair or replace these items.
- What’s Not Covered: It’s important to understand that while the resulting water damage is usually covered, the cost of repairing or replacing the actual pipe that burst may not be. Policies often view the pipe itself as part of regular home maintenance.
- Preventive Measures and Policy Discounts: Some insurance companies offer discounts or incentives for homeowners who install preventive technology, such as smart home devices that monitor your home’s temperature and water flow to prevent freezing pipes. Check with your insurance provider to see if such options are available.
- Additional Living Expenses (ALE): If your home becomes uninhabitable due to water damage from a burst pipe, your homeowners policy’s Additional Living Expenses coverage may kick in. This can help cover the cost of temporary housing and other living expenses while your home is being repaired.
- Review Your Policy: Policies can vary greatly, so it’s important to review your specific policy or speak with your insurance agent to understand the nuances of your coverage. Make sure you know your policy’s limits and deductibles as they apply to water damage from frozen pipes.
- Documentation and Claims Process: In the event of a frozen pipe burst, document the damage thoroughly and contact your insurance provider immediately to start the claims process. Quick action can be crucial in ensuring your claim is handled efficiently and effectively.
In summary, while homeowners insurance typically covers damage from frozen pipes, the key is in the prevention and maintenance of your home’s plumbing system. Regularly reviewing your policy and discussing coverage details with your insurance agent can provide clarity and help you make informed decisions about protecting your home against the risks of harsh Massachusetts winters.
Filing an Insurance Claim for Frozen Pipe Damage
Experiencing frozen pipe damage in your home can be stressful, but knowing how to efficiently navigate the insurance claim process can significantly ease the burden. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through this critical phase:
- Immediate Documentation: As soon as you notice damage from a frozen pipe, start documenting. Take clear, detailed photos or videos of the affected area, including close-ups of the burst pipe and the overall area of damage. This visual evidence is crucial for your insurance claim.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance provider about the damage as soon as possible. Most insurance companies have a deadline for filing claims after an incident occurs. Delaying this step could jeopardize your claim.
- Review Your Policy: While you wait for the insurance adjuster, review your homeowners’ insurance policy. Understand what is covered and what is not. Typically, policies cover the damage caused by the burst pipe, not the cost of replacing the pipe itself. Knowing the specifics of your policy will help you set realistic expectations.
- Prevent Further Damage: Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage. This might include shutting off the water supply, removing water, and drying out affected areas. However, avoid making permanent repairs until the insurance adjuster has assessed the damage. Keep receipts for any emergency repair work, as these costs might be reimbursable under your policy.
- Prepare for the Adjuster’s Visit: When the insurance adjuster visits your property to assess the damage, have all your documentation ready. This includes the initial photos of the damage, a list of damaged items, and receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary measures you’ve taken.
- Keep Detailed Records: Maintain a file with all correspondence related to your claim, including emails and notes from phone conversations. This record should include dates, names, and a brief description of the conversation or email content.
- Temporary Living Arrangements: If the damage is severe enough to require you to live elsewhere during repairs, keep records and receipts of all additional living expenses. Many homeowners’ policies provide coverage for these expenses up to a certain limit.
- Follow Up: Stay in regular contact with your insurance company to check the status of your claim. If you feel the process is taking too long or you are unsatisfied with the claim amount, discuss your concerns with your insurance agent or a company representative.
- Consider Professional Help: If your claim is complex or if you’re not satisfied with the insurance company’s offer, you might consider consulting a public adjuster or an attorney specializing in insurance matters. They can provide additional support and representation in negotiations with your insurance company.
- Final Settlement: Once your claim is processed and you agree with the settlement offered by your insurance company, you will typically receive the funds in a lump sum. Ensure you understand if the payment covers all repair costs or if you’ll need to submit additional documentation after repairs are completed.
Remember, each insurance claim is unique, and the process can vary based on the specifics of your policy and the extent of the damage. It’s always advisable to maintain open and clear communication with your insurance provider throughout the process to ensure a smooth and efficient resolution to your claim.
10 Tips for preventing and dealing with frozen pipes
- Keep your home’s temperature above freezing.
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas such as the attic, garage, or crawlspace.
- Allow a small trickle of water to flow through the pipes during cold weather.
- Keep your garage door closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
- Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
- Seal any air leaks around pipes to prevent cold air from reaching them.
- Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets.
- Install heating tape or a heat cable along pipes in cold areas.
- If you’re going away during cold weather, have someone check your home regularly.
- If you have a frozen pipe, turn off the water supply and contact a plumber or try to thaw the pipe using a hair dryer, hot towels, or a space heater.
Top FAQs for Frozen Pipes
What causes pipes to freeze?
Pipes can freeze when the temperature outside drops below freezing and the water inside the pipe is not moving. Water will freeze when it reaches a temperature of 32°F (0°C). When the water in a pipe freezes, it expands and can cause the pipe to burst.
How do I prevent my pipes from freezing?
There are several steps you can take to prevent your pipes from freezing:
- Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F (13°C)
- Insulate your pipes, especially those that are exposed to cold air or located in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and shut off the water supply to outdoor spigots
- Seal any gaps or cracks in walls or foundations near pipes
- Leave your cabinet doors open to allow heat to reach pipes under sinks and appliances
What should I do if my pipes are frozen?
If you suspect that your pipes are frozen, you should take immediate action to thaw them out. Here are some steps you can take:
- Keep the faucet open. This will help relieve pressure in the pipe and allow the water to start flowing again once it thaws.
- Apply heat to the pipe. You can use a hair dryer, a space heater, or a heating pad to warm the pipe. Do not use an open flame or a propane torch, as this can be dangerous.
- Use hot water or a hot water bottle to thaw the pipe. Be sure to use caution when handling hot water.
What should I do if my pipes have already burst?
If your pipes have already burst, you should immediately turn off the water supply to your home. If you are unable to locate the main water valve, contact your local water utility for assistance. Once the water supply has been shut off, you should call a plumber to repair the damaged pipe. In the meantime, you can try to clean up any water that has spilled and dry out any wet areas to prevent further damage.
How Can I thaw frozen pipes myself?
It is generally safe to thaw frozen pipes yourself as long as you take appropriate precautions and follow the steps outlined above. However, if you are unsure of how to do this or if you are unable to locate the frozen pipe, it is best to call a plumber for assistance. A plumber will have the tools and experience needed to safely and effectively thaw your pipes.
Acting Proactively Can Help in Preventing Frozen Pipes
Dealing with frozen pipes in your home is definitely on the list of nightmarish homeowner problems. Aside from dealing with the cold and the pipes, the potential for water damage is significant. The more you can do to act proactively to help protect your at-risk pipes, the better.
If you have insurance questions about a frozen pipe problem or want to evaluate your homeowner’s policy to ensure you have the coverage you need, we can help. Contact us today so we can discuss your home insurance needs.
