AT H O M E S A F E T Y T I P S
Freezing Pipes 101
Why is freezing pipes a problem?
Well, water expands when frozen. This expansion puts
tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including
metal or plastic pipes. No matter the “strength” of a container,
expanding water can cause pipes to break. This can lead to
costly damages to your home.
When/how are pipes most likely to freeze?
Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed
to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply
lines, water sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in unheated
interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages,
or kitchen cabinets. Pipes that run against exterior walls that
have little ܈