Winter in Cincinnati, Louisville, and Southern Indiana means cold temperatures and, unfortunately, the risk of plumbing problems. When temperatures drop below freezing, water inside your pipes can freeze, expand, and cause them to burst, leading to costly repairs and water damage.
If you’re dealing with a burst pipe, yes, Tom Drexler can fix burst pipes — we’re here to provide emergency repairs when you need us most. Read on to learn how to safeguard your pipes from winter damage.
Why Polybutylene Pipes Are Particularly Vulnerable
If your home has polybutylene pipes, they’re especially prone to freezing and bursting. These plastic pipes were popular in homes built from the 1970s to the 1990s but are less durable than more modern materials. Freezing temperatures can weaken polybutylene pipes even more, increasing the likelihood of frozen or burst pipes.
If you’re unsure what type of pipes your home has, a professional inspection from Tom Drexler can help determine your pipe materials and what preventative measures you should take to avoid frozen or burst pipes.
What to Do When Temperatures Drop Below Freezing
When freezing weather is in the forecast, take these steps to protect your pipes from freezing and bursting:
- Drip faucets: Letting faucets drip slightly keeps water moving through your pipes, reducing the chance of freezing.
- Open under-sink cabinets: Open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around pipes under sinks, especially in bathrooms or kitchens located along exterior walls.
- Close garage doors: If you have water supply lines running through your garage, keeping the doors closed helps maintain a warmer environment.
- Turn off the water supply: If you’ll be away for an extended period, shut off the main water supply and open all faucets to let out any water in the pipes and avoid a disaster.
Long-Term Solutions to Prevent Frozen Pipes
If a full system upgrade isn’t in the budget, there are long-term solutions to prevent frozen and burst pipes:
- Keep your heat above 55 degrees Fahrenheit: Even if you’re not home, maintaining a steady indoor temperature can prevent pipes from freezing.
- Insulate your pipes: Add insulation to pipes in crawl spaces, unfinished basements, garages, and attics. Foam pipe sleeves or heat tape are affordable and effective options.
- Winterize your home in the fall: Disconnect garden hoses, shut off the outdoor water supply, and cover hose bibs with insulated covers to prevent freezing.
How to Thaw Frozen Pipes
If your pipes freeze, follow these steps to safely thaw them:
- Turn off the water supply to prevent flooding if the pipe bursts during thawing.
- Open faucets to relieve pressure and allow water to flow as the ice melts.
- Use a hairdryer, space heater, or heating pad to gradually warm the frozen section. Never use an open flame.
If you can’t locate the frozen pipe or thaw it safely, call a professional for help.
What to Do If a Pipe Bursts
If a pipe bursts, you need to act quickly. Follow these instructions to minimize the damage:
- Turn off the main water supply immediately.
- Shut off your electricity if the water is near electrical outlets or appliances.
- Mop up standing water to reduce further damage.
- Call Tom Drexler for emergency plumbing repair.
Why Choose Tom Drexler for Burst Pipe Repairs?
At Tom Drexler Plumbing, Air & Electric, our team is equipped to handle everything from burst pipe repairs to full plumbing replacements.
With online booking available 24/7, we’re here to provide expert repairs when you need them most.
Don’t wait for a pipe to burst—stay proactive and protect your home this winter.
If you need assistance, schedule pipe repair or replacement with Tom Drexler today!
