The winter season brings with it a lot of things: cold weather, snow, and—most importantly—burst pipes.
It’s not exactly surprising that pipes burst during the winter months; after all, it’s freezing outside! But what is surprising is how often this happens. In fact, according to one report, more than half of all burst pipes occur during the winter months.
So what causes these bursts? How repiping solution can be helpful? And how can you prevent them from happening in your home? Let’s look at some of the most common reasons why water pipes sometimes burst in the winter and how to prevent burst pipes from happening to you.
Why do pipes burst in the winter?
It’s a question that plagues many homeowners in Santa Fe each year and for a good reason. If you’re wondering what causes pipes to burst, it’s important to understand that this issue has several main causes.
And, if you are not sure about the burst pipes’ reasons, then read on to learn more about what causes this problem.
Low temperatures
When it’s cold out, water in pipes can freeze and expand, causing them to burst—and that’s not all! The expansion also causes the pipe’s walls to crack and crumble, allowing for damage even when the water isn’t frozen. This can lead to leaks and other problems throughout your home, which we’ll get into later.
Standing water
If standing water in a pipe—like if a toilet overflows or you have a leaky roof—it could freeze at night when it gets colder outside than inside your home (or vice versa). This will cause blockages that will prevent any more water from flowing through the pipe, which means that if this happens on its own during regular use (like when flushing a toilet or running water), no one will notice until much later on down the road (or even worse—until something breaks). This can lead to overflow situations like flooding or mold growth inside your walls.
Expansion of freezing water
Does water expand when it freezes? Yes. As water freezes, it expands by approximately 9%. But why does water expand when it freezes? This means that the pressure on your pipes increases as the temperature drops.
Increased pressure
Pipes under constant pressure can become weak and more susceptible to bursting. The cold weather can cause pipes to expand, which puts more pressure on their walls and makes them more likely to burst.
Release of water
When people start using their hot water heaters and dishwashers in the winter, they can’t always keep up with the demand for water that’s running through their pipes. This means that more pressure builds up in the pipes than normal, which can lead to leaks, burst pipes, and broken pipes.
At what temperature do pipes freeze?
The temperature at which pipes freeze can vary depending on several factors, including the type of pipe, its location, and the surrounding environment. However, as a general guideline, water in pipes will begin to freeze when the temperature drops to 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) or below.
It’s important to note that not all pipes will freeze at the same temperature. The type of material the pipe is made of (such as copper, PVC, or steel) and its thickness can influence how quickly the pipe freezes. Additionally, pipes that are exposed to colder outdoor temperatures or located in unheated or poorly insulated areas (e.g., attics, crawl spaces, basements, or exterior walls) are more susceptible to freezing than those in warmer or insulated spaces.
Furthermore, the duration of freezing temperatures plays a significant role. If the temperature remains at or below freezing for an extended period, the chances of pipes freezing increase significantly.
What to do when pipes burst in house?
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve got a burst pipe in your house. We know it can be scary, but don’t worry—we have everything you need to know about what to do when you have burst pipes in winter so that you can get back to enjoying your home again as soon as possible.
Here’s what you should do when you discover a burst pipe:
Shut off the water supply.
The first step is to shut off the main water supply to your house immediately. Locate the main water shut-off valve (usually located near the water meter) and turn it in clockwise direction until it’s fully closed. This will stop the flow of water to the burst pipe and prevent more water from causing damage.
Open faucets to relieve pressure.
After shutting off the main water supply, open all faucets (both hot and cold) in the affected area. This will help relieve any remaining pressure in the pipes and reduce the potential for additional leaks.
Electricity and safety.
If water is leaking near electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the electricity to the affected area at the breaker panel to avoid electrical hazards. Be cautious when dealing with water near electrical sources.
Drain the water.
To minimize damage, drain the water from the affected pipe and the surrounding area. Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up standing water.
Locate the burst pipe.
Identify the location of the burst pipe and inspect it for damage. This will help you understand the extent of the problem and guide repairs.
Repair or replace the pipe.
Depending on the severity of the burst, you may need to repair or replace the damaged section of the pipe. If you’re not experienced with plumbing repairs, it’s best to call a professional Santa Fe plumber to handle the repair work.
Address water damage.
Dry out any water-damaged items and areas. Use fans and dehumidifiers to help with the drying process and prevent mold growth.
Call your insurance company immediately.
If the burst pipe has caused major water damage, it’s important to contact your insurance company to report the incident and inquire about coverage for repairs and restoration.
Prevent future occurrences.
After the pipe is repaired, take steps to prevent future bursts by insulating exposed pipes, especially in vulnerable areas, and keeping your home adequately heated during cold weather.
What is Winterized Pipes?
Winterized Pipes are what you need to keep your pipes from freezing.
When the temperature drops, protecting your pipes from the cold is important. It is a process that makes sure that the water inside your pipes stays at the right temperature, no matter how cold it gets outside. Winterized Pipes are designed to prevent freezing temperatures from damaging your pipes, which can lead to costly repairs or, even worse—a burst pipe.
How to prevent burst pipes in winter?
Preventing burst pipes in winter is essential to avoid potential water damage and costly repairs. Here are some effective steps you can take to prevent burst pipes in cold weather and safeguard your plumbing system during cold weather:
Insulate vulnerable pipes.
Pipes that are exposed to extreme temperatures—either hot or cold—are more likely to burst. To prevent this from happening, insulate vulnerable pipes with foam or other material that will protect them from the cold weather and keep water flowing through them throughout the winter months.
Seal leaks and cracks.
Leaks or cracks in pipes can cause water damage if they aren’t repaired when they first appear. It’s best to seal these leaks as soon as possible so that they don’t cause further damage later on down the road when temperatures drop below freezing levels each year during winter months!
Disconnect outdoor hoses.
When the weather gets cold, water lines can freeze and burst. To prevent this, disconnect outdoor hoses and drain them immediately after use. If you are going away for an extended period of time, drain all water lines before leaving.
Maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
It’s important to keep your home warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing but not too warm to cause condensation on walls and ceilings, which could cause mold growth. A good rule of thumb is that if you’re chilly in your living room or kitchen, then something is wrong with your heating system! Contact a professional HVAC technician like James Plumbing & Heating if necessary.
Let faucets drip.
If there’s water pressure in your pipes that aren’t being used by a running faucet or appliance, it can cause them to freeze and burst—which is why letting them drip can help keep your pipes from freezing up entirely.
Open cabinet doors.
If you have a house with cabinets under the sink, open them up. The heat from the water flowing through your pipes will warm the surrounding air and help prevent the water from freezing.
Use a programmable thermostat.
This is one of the most effective ways to prevent your pipes from freezing in winter. When you use a programmable thermostat, you can set it so that your house won’t be too hot or too cold when no one is home or asleep. This will help keep those pipes nice and warm!
Insulate your home.
If you want to ensure your pipes stay warm during the winter months, then insulating your home should be at the top of your list! You can do this by investing in some high-quality insulation materials like wool blankets or extra layers of drywall on your walls and ceilings (if possible). With proper insulation, you’ll also be able to save money on energy costs each month!
Add extra insulation.
Insulation keeps your home warm—and your water flowing! Insulation helps prevent heat from escaping through your walls and ceiling. But it also helps keep cold air from getting in through cracks in those same walls and ceilings. And it can save you money on utility bills!
Monitor weather forecasts.
Check the weather forecast before you leave for work or play outside in sub-zero temperatures, so you’ll know when a frost warning is issued or if there’s a risk of snowfall. If there is any chance of extreme weather conditions, try not to leave the house until they pass over.
Install a water leak detection system.
Wondering, “How to prevent burst pipes in an empty homes?” So, your last tip is to install a water leak detection system in your home. These systems monitor your plumbing system 24/7 and alert you if there’s an issue with any of your pipes. They can also tell you what kind of problem occurred and where it occurred so you know exactly how much damage has been done. This will save money by preventing more costly repairs later on.
DIY Vs. Professional Burst Water Pipe Repair Solution
When you suffer a burst water pipe, it can be a real headache. You’ll likely have to pay for expensive repair services, but if you’re able to fix the problem by yourself, it can save you a lot of money. If you’re wondering whether investing in a toolkit or hiring an expert to fix your burst water pipe is worth it, read on to find out.
Here’s a comparison table outlining the differences between a DIY (Do-It-Yourself) approach and a professional burst water pipe repair solution:
| Aspect | DIY Burst Pipe Repair | Professional Burst Pipe Repair |
| Skill and Experience | Requires some plumbing skills | Professional plumbers have extensive experience and expertise in pipe repairs and handling emergencies. |
| Cost | Relatively lower cost | Generally, higher costs are due to the labor, equipment, and expertise involved. However, insurance may cover some expenses. |
| Time Investment | Depends on individual skills | Typically quicker as professionals are trained to handle repairs efficiently. |
| Quality of Repair | Depends on individual skills | High-quality repair, reducing the likelihood of future issues. |
| Safety | Potential safety risks | Trained professionals prioritize safety and follow industry standards. |
| Complexity of Repairs | Suitable for minor issues | Capable of handling complex repairs and more significant pipe damage. |
| Warranty/Guarantee | Often limited or none | Usually provides warranties or guarantees on their work. |
| Tools and Equipment | Basic tools required | Well-equipped with specialized tools and materials for various repairs. |
| Availability of Materials | Limited access to materials | Access to a comprehensive range of high-quality materials for repairs. |
| Insurance Coverage and Liability | Personal liability | Professional services may be covered by insurance for any accidents or damages. |
| Water Damage Restoration | DIY may not include this | Professionals may offer water damage restoration services as well. |
| Emergency Response | May not be available 24/7 | Professional services often offer emergency response and quick assistance. |
| Convenience and Peace of Mind | DIY requires effort | Professional services provide convenience and assurance of a job well done. |
FAQs
How do I know if my burst water pipe needs to be repaired?
If you have a leak in your water supply, it’s important to determine whether or not you need to call a professional. If the leak is small and coming from an easily accessible location, like under your sink, you may be able to repair the pipe yourself. If it’s coming from further away, like from a wall exposed to weather elements, or if there are multiple leaks in one area, then it’s definitely time for a professional repair.
What’s the difference between a burst water pipe repair and a pipe replacement?
How much does it cost to replace a burst water pipe?
What is the difference between a burst water pipe repair and repiping?
What are the benefits of repiping?
How much does it cost to repipe my property?
Get A Permanent Solution by Hiring James Plumbing & Heating in Santa Fe!
When your home is leaking, or you have burst pipes, it’s time to Get a Permanent Solution by Hiring James Plumbing & Heating in Santa Fe!
James Plumbing & Heating offers a full range of plumbing services to keep your home in tip-top condition. From repiping solutions to installing new fixtures, James Plumbing & Heating has you covered.
We have been providing reliable services for Plumbing Maintenance in Santa Fe for over 30 years. We are dedicated to providing excellent service at an affordable price. Our licensed plumbers are highly trained and experienced, so they can quickly diagnose the problem and repair any plumbing or heating issue.
Our team of repiping specialists in Santa Fe can help you with all of your plumbing needs:
- Repiping Solution
- Leak Detection and Repair
- Hot Water Heater Repair
- Sewer Line Repair
- Drain Cleaning
- Gas Piping Repair
- Water Heater Installation
- Shower Installation
- And Many More…
When you have a burst pipe or any other plumbing issue, our team of professional plumbers will come out to assess the situation and provide you with an exact estimate of how much it will cost to replace your pipes. As soon as we receive your approval, we’ll get started on the job right away. We’ll work quickly and efficiently so that you can get back to living life without worrying about whether or not your pipes will burst again!
The best thing? We also offer emergency services so that no matter what time of day or night, we will be there when you need us most.
It’s never too late to start working on your house so that it looks beautiful again! Call our repiping specialist today at 505-473-7148 to learn more about our affordable repiping solution!