When winter arrives in Houston, most homeowners don’t expect the kind of freezing weather that hits the northern U.S.—but recent cold snaps have proven otherwise. Even a few hours of sub-freezing temperatures can cause water inside your pipes to freeze, expand, and burst. Knowing how to prevent broken pipes in winter isn’t just about saving money—it’s about protecting your home from major water damage, mold, and costly plumbing repairs.
Snapshot: Winter Pipe Protection in Houston, TX
| Average lifespan of residential plumbing | 40–70 years depending on material |
| Typical cost of water line repair | $250–$1,500+ depending on location and damage |
| Most common causes of pipe breaks | Freezing, corrosion, poor insulation, pressure buildup |
| Best prevention time | Before the first winter freeze (late November–early December) |
| Local insight | Houston winters are usually mild, but sudden cold fronts below 32°F can freeze outdoor or poorly insulated pipes overnight. |
Why Pipes Break in Winter
Even in Southeast Texas, a sudden drop below freezing can spell trouble for your plumbing. When water freezes, it expands by roughly 9%. Inside a sealed pipe, that expansion creates enormous pressure—often more than enough to crack metal or PVC lines. Once the ice thaws, water gushes through the split, flooding walls, ceilings, and floors.
Pipes in unheated spaces like attics, garages, and crawl spaces are especially at risk. Older copper and galvanized steel pipes can corrode over time, weakening their walls and making them more vulnerable to bursting. Even PEX and PVC, while flexible, can rupture if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Aside from the direct cost of plumbing repairs, broken pipes often cause structural damage, ruined flooring, and mold growth. That’s why prevention is always the smarter—and cheaper—choice.
5 Essential Ways to Prevent Broken Pipes in Winter
1. Keep Cabinets Open for Better Airflow
In most homes, kitchen and bathroom sinks have pipes running behind cabinet doors, where temperatures drop faster. On cold nights, open these cabinets to let warm indoor air circulate around the pipes. This simple step helps maintain enough warmth to prevent freezing, especially for plumbing along exterior walls.
2. Let Faucets Drip Overnight
Running water doesn’t freeze as easily as still water. Allowing a slow drip from your faucets keeps pressure from building up inside pipes and prevents freezing. Focus on faucets connected to exterior walls or areas prone to drafts. Even a small trickle overnight can save you from a burst pipe—and a costly repair call in the morning.
3. Keep Your Home Heated Consistently
It may be tempting to lower your thermostat while you sleep or when you’re away, but sudden temperature drops inside your home can freeze pipes quickly. Set your thermostat to maintain a consistent temperature (ideally above 55°F) throughout the house. It’s worth a slightly higher energy bill compared to the thousands it can cost to fix a burst pipe and water damage.
If you plan to leave your home for an extended period during winter, don’t turn off your heat completely. Instead, keep it running at a low setting to maintain minimal warmth in the plumbing system.
4. Insulate Pipes and Cold Zones
Insulating exposed pipes is one of the best long-term solutions to avoid frozen plumbing. Use foam pipe sleeves, fiberglass wraps, or heat tape on pipes in attics, garages, basements, or crawl spaces. Don’t forget to seal cracks or openings where cold air might enter your home and reach the plumbing.
If your house has a pier-and-beam foundation, insulate pipes that run beneath the floor. In two-story homes, insulate attic water lines that feed upstairs bathrooms or laundry areas. Proper insulation can also improve your home’s overall energy efficiency—keeping you warmer while lowering utility costs.
5. Use Space Heaters Safely
For especially cold nights, consider using a portable space heater in areas most susceptible to freezing, like kitchens or laundry rooms near exterior walls. Always plug heaters directly into grounded outlets—never use extension cords—and keep them on a low, safe setting. Avoid using them in bathrooms or leaving them unattended. This should be considered a short-term solution for emergencies, not a permanent heating fix.
Professional Inspection and Maintenance
While DIY precautions help, nothing beats a professional eye on your plumbing system—especially before winter hits. A licensed plumber can identify weak joints, hidden leaks, and uninsulated areas you may not notice. At John Moore Services, our Houston plumbers use advanced diagnostic tools to inspect your home’s water lines, check for pressure issues, and insulate pipes effectively.
If you suspect your pipes are already frozen:
- Turn off the main water supply immediately.
- Open faucets to relieve pressure.
- Call a licensed plumber right away.
Attempting to thaw frozen pipes yourself with open flames or high heat can cause fires or further damage. Professionals can thaw and repair your lines safely while preventing future issues.
Why Prevention Saves You More in Houston
Because Houston’s winters are unpredictable, many homeowners underestimate the risk of frozen pipes. But even brief cold spells—like the ones in recent years—can cause widespread water damage across the city. Investing in prevention now saves you from unexpected emergency calls and insurance claims later.
Modern plumbing materials and proper insulation help, but consistent maintenance is the key. Checking insulation annually, draining outdoor hoses, and sealing foundation vents before winter are small tasks that make a big difference in protecting your home.
John Moore Services: Houston’s Winter Plumbing Experts
For more than 50 years, John Moore Services has been helping Houston homeowners protect their plumbing from weather extremes. Our certified plumbers provide comprehensive winterization services—from pipe insulation and water line inspection to emergency burst pipe repair.
We understand how unpredictable Texas weather can be. That’s why our experts use proven methods tailored to Houston’s unique climate and soil conditions. Whether you live in Katy, Sugar Land, or The Woodlands, we’re here to help keep your water lines running smoothly year-round.
Don’t wait for the next freeze warning. Schedule your plumbing inspection with John Moore Services today and protect your home before winter strikes.
FAQs
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How cold does it have to get for pipes to freeze in Houston?
Pipes can freeze when temperatures drop near or below 32°F—especially if they’re exposed, uninsulated, or located in unheated areas.
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What should I do if I think my pipes are frozen?
Turn off your main water supply, open faucets to relieve pressure, and contact a plumber immediately. Avoid using open flames or high heat.
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How can I tell if a pipe is about to burst?
Look for reduced water flow, visible frost, bulging sections, or odd gurgling sounds in your plumbing. These are early warning signs.
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Does pipe insulation prevent all freezing?
Insulation significantly reduces risk, but extreme freezes can still affect unheated or poorly sealed areas. Combine insulation with steady heat.
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What’s the safest way to thaw a frozen pipe?
Use a hair dryer or space heater on low, starting from the faucet end and moving slowly along the pipe. Never use an open flame.
