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Freezing Temperatures Are Becoming More Common. How Homeowners Can Protect Their Plumbing
Freezing temperatures have always been part of winter across Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the Delaware Valley. Homeowners in this region are no strangers to frozen pipes, burst lines, and cold-weather plumbing emergencies.
What has changed in recent years is how often freezing temperatures occur and how unpredictable they’ve become. Instead of gradual seasonal transitions, homeowners are increasingly dealing with sudden cold snaps, sharp overnight temperature drops, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles that place added stress on plumbing systems.
At Carbone The Plumber Heating & Air, our team has spent decades responding to winter plumbing issues throughout the Mid-Atlantic. While the types of problems haven’t changed, the frequency and timing have, which makes preparation more important than ever.
Why Unpredictable Freezes Increase Plumbing Risk
Sudden temperature drops can catch homeowners off guard, especially when plumbing systems are exposed in garages, crawl spaces, basements, or exterior walls. Pipes in these areas are often the first to freeze when cold air moves in quickly.
According to Brian Caldwell, master plumber with Stan’s Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical, rapid temperature changes are often the biggest issue.
“It’s not always the longest cold spells that cause damage,” Caldwell explains. “Quick drops in temperature are often when pipes freeze, and problems start.”
Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can also weaken pipes over time, increasing the risk of cracks or bursts even when temperatures only dip below freezing for short periods.
Steps Homeowners Can Take to Protect Their Plumbing
Preparing for freezing temperatures doesn’t require major renovations, but it does require attention to the areas most at risk. Homeowners can reduce the likelihood of frozen pipes by:
- Insulating pipes in unheated spaces such as crawl spaces, garages, and basements
- Sealing gaps and cracks around exterior walls, foundations, and utility entry points
- Disconnecting outdoor hoses and shutting off exterior water lines
- Opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate
- Letting faucets drip during extreme cold to help relieve pressure in the system
Caldwell notes that basic insulation is one of the most effective preventive measures. “Pipe insulation is one of the simplest ways to reduce freezing risk, especially in exposed areas,” he says.
Why Prevention Matters
When a pipe freezes and bursts, water damage can spread quickly. Floors, walls, ceilings, and personal belongings may be affected in a matter of minutes. In many cases, the cost of water damage far exceeds the cost of the plumbing repair itself.
That’s why professional plumbers consistently recommend addressing potential problem areas before temperatures drop rather than waiting for an emergency to occur.
When to Call a Plumber
Signs like reduced water flow, frost on visible pipes, or unusual noises during cold weather can indicate a developing issue. Having a professional assess the situation early can help prevent extensive damage and unexpected repair costs.
Freezing temperatures aren’t new to the Mid-Atlantic, but their increased frequency and unpredictability mean homeowners need to be more proactive. With proper preparation and professional guidance, it’s possible to protect your plumbing system and reduce the risk of cold-weather emergencies. Carbonetheplumber.com/contact-us/”>Contact us today online or over the phone if freezing temperatures have affected your plumbing systems.
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