Q&A : How Long Does it Take for Pipes to Freeze? Thawing Frozen Pipes?

How Long Does it Take for Pipes to Freeze? How do you thaw frozen pipes? At what temperature do pipes freeze? And more…We answer all of your questions about frozen pipes to help you prevent a disaster and get you through another winter.

By the end of this article, you should be fully informed. I intend answering all the frequently asked questions about frozen pipes and provide a host of handy tips on how to manage the cold and prevent your pipes from freezing.

VIDEO | How to Prevent Frozen Pipes (from This Old House)

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How Long Does it Take for Pipes to Freeze?

In Northern climates, where the temperature is regularly expected to drop below freezing, building methods are implemented to prevent pipes from freezing. In the south, freezing weather is less common and many houses in these warmer climates are not built in anticipation of very cold weather. So houses in the South are usually more vulnerable, simply because the insulation and plumbing installations are not intended to withstand these extreme weather conditions. Though, even in the south, a freak cold snap could result in frozen pipes.

We all know that water freezes at 32° Fahrenheit. But will pipes actually freeze when the temperature reaches 32°? No they won’t. Pipes freeze when heat is transferred from the water inside the pipe to the surrounding air. This means that the surrounding air temperature has to fall well below 32° for the pipes to freeze. As a general rule, the temperature threshold where the likelihood of pipe freezing becomes a danger is 20°F. But this is a very basic estimation, based on uninsulated pipes in an attic without heating. While this may be applicable to Southern homes where insulation is not a great priority, it doesn’t apply to northern homes where more attention is paid to insulation against the cold. More importantly, it doesn’t tell us how long it takes for the pipes to freeze.

To obtain a more scientific explanation to this conundrum, I’ll refer to a study conducted by the University of Illinois (School of Architecture) in 1994 and 1995. This is a long and comprehensive document (View or Download Study), covering two phases of research. The first phase was laboratory testing under controlled conditions, using various types of common household pipes. They measured the external temperature and the pipe temperature. They then charted how long it took for the pipes to freeze at different temperatures. In the second phase, they conducted field tests in the attics of actual homes during the first three months of 1995. The results of the lab tests are the most interesting as they give us accurate data depicting how long it takes for pipes to freeze at certain temperatures.

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Using ½” copper pipe with ½” fiberglass insulation, at an ambient temperature of 20°F, it took about 2-hours for the pipe to reach 32°. This is the point at which the water in the pipe begins to freeze. For the pipes to become completely frozen to such an extent that there is zero water flow takes quite a bit longer. Freezing temperature seems to level out at about 3-hours. What I’ve managed to conclude from this is that, with little insulation, it’s going to take about 3-6 hours for your pipes to freeze when the air temperature is 20°F. The field tests also concluded that 20°F is the point at which pipe freezing is most likely to occur. This point of view was substantiated by 71 independent plumbing contractors.

In conclusion, I’ll summarize by saying that your pipes will not freeze when the air temperature reaches 32°F. You only need to be concerned when the weatherman forecasts temperatures of 20°F or less. Then it’s matter of how well your pipes are insulated and if they run through a heated area or not. With a reasonable amount of insulation, even pipes in an unheated area could take up to 6-hours to freeze. This means that the air temperature has to remain at 20° for about 6-hours before there’s a risk of your pipes freezing. On the other hand, if you have little or no insulation, your pipes could freeze in as little as 3-hours.

There is one more factor to take into consideration when determining how long it takes for pipes to freeze. Cold air moving across your pipes will cause them to freeze more rapidly. Pipes that are exposed to cold winds are at the greatest risk. If you have external pipes, pipes in a drafty attic, or have gaps in the walls of your home, your pipes may begin to freeze when the ambient temperature is above 20°F. If we take the wind chill factor into account, pipes that are exposed to the elements can begin freeze anywhere between 25° and 30° Fahrenheit ambient temperature.

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How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing

At the very least, insulate pipes or better — use electric heating cables.

It’s clear from the University of Illinois research that the time it takes for pipes to freeze can be as little as 3-hours. The key factor here is how exposed your pipes are to the elements. So the most important preventative measure is insulating your pipes.

Homes with pipes on the exterior walls and pipes in unheated attics are most at risk. These pipes will take the least amount of time to freeze. You may consider getting a plumber to re-route pipes that are not installed along well-insulated inside walls. Alternatively, you could install additional insulation around these pipes. Foam insulation will greatly reduce the risk of frozen pipes and is not expensive or difficult to do. Gaps in your walls are going to allow cold air into the crevices where your pipes run. So insulating your walls is also important.

VIDEO | How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing

If you don’t want to spend money on insulating your pipes, there ways to do this. You could wrap old newspaper or rags around your external pipes. Though this is not the most effective prevention and these materials won’t last very long. If you live in an area where freezing temperatures are not too common, this could be a very cost-effective temporary measure. If you know unusually cold weather is eminent, you could use paper of rags to protect your pipes for this short period of time.

To do it right, you need to either use proper pipe insulation and install it correctly, like the Frost King Foil Backed Fiberglass Pipe Wrap OR foam pipe insulation — But in all honesty, a far better (and more expensive) solution is to use a heating cable like the Easy Heat, electric heating cable (from 3 ft. to 80 ft.).

Flowing water is not going to freeze as easily, if at all and there is now water pressure to cause a burst pipe. If you are any doubt as to whether your pipes have adequate insulation, you can leave a faucet open. You only need to leave the water running at a slow trickle to make a difference. Even then, Even though I’m not particularly fond of wastage and leaving your water running for a long time, it’s important that you take the right steps to prevent a pipe from bursting because if it does, think about all the water that will be spilled and wasted.

Don’t get caught up in the guilt and feeling that you’re “wasting” water because you will actually be doing the opposite over the long run. Correct insulation is certainly the best way to prevent your pipes from freezing but the more steps you take, the less likely it is that you’ll have to deal with the aftermath of a shattered pipe.

VIDEO | How to Drain Pipes for the Winter

If you’re going to be away from home for any length of time during the winter, you may think that turning your heating off will save you some money. This could very likely turn out to be the opposite.  The damage resulting from freezing pipes costs Americans $4.4 million annually. Not only do you have to pay for pipe repairs, but the resultant water damage to your home and its contents can be far greater than the actual plumbing repair.

Leaving the heat on while you are away from home in the winter may cost a little, but this is going to be far less than repairing the damage that results from frozen pipes. You don’t need to leave your heating set a normal comfortable temperature as you would when you were home. You can turn the thermostat down so that it’s just enough to prevent the air in your home from dropping to a point where your pipes freeze.

If the thought of unnecessarily leaving your heating furnace on when you’re not home doesn’t appeal to you, you can prevent your pipes from freezing without using heat. Before you leave, you can drain the water from your pipes by shutting off the main water supply and leaving all your faucets open. Leaving no water in the pipes, means there’s nothing to freeze.

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How-To Thaw Frozen Pipes

If you can’t see the pipe, you can blow the hot air into an open faucet. This is going to take longer and you need to take care that when the water begins to flow, you don’t let it come into contact with the hair dryer.

VIDEO | How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

Thawing pipes in your home is relatively easy, but how do you thaw underground pipes? You may want to call a plumber to thaw your underground pipes. There is electrical equipment to heat the frozen pipe, but this can be dangerous and has to be performed by a qualified professional. In freezing weather, it may take a day or more before a plumber can find the time to attend to your problem. It’s likely that they have to attend to many homes before getting to you. There is a way to successfully thaw your underground pipes yourself.

You’ll need flexible hose with a diameter that will fit into the main water supply pipe. Since your water supply pipe is generally ¾”, a ¼” hose will easily do the trick. You’ll need a decent length hose as the blockage could be anywhere between your home and the street. If you’re able to run the hose from the point where the pipe enters your home to your street, it will definitely be long enough. You’ll also need a large storage bin, capable of holding at least 5-gallons of water, and a submersible pump (the kind of pump used for a garden pond).

You’ll need to gain access to the underground pipe. This would mean disconnecting the main supply pipe where it enters your home. Before you start, make sure that you have some way of shutting the water off when the blockage is removed. Once you remove the ice blockage, you’ll have pressurized water gushing through the opening in the pipe. The best way to do this is to fit a stop valve to the pipe opening.

Fill your bin to about ¾ from full and place your pump inside with your flexible hose connected to the pump outlet. Then you’ll feed the hose into your underground pipe. You may have to push and pull the hose back and forth as you work. Keep pushing until you hit an obstacle. This will be the point where the ice is blocking your underground pipe. Now switch your pump on and keep pushing back and forth on your hose with strokes of about 3 – 5 inches.

It may take some time, possibly a few hours, but the water will gradually melt the ice and remove the frozen blockage. You may think that using warm water will speed the process up, but it won’t really. Warm water will quickly cool and you’ll actually be wasting more time constantly replacing it fresh warm water. Water at normal temperature does a good job of melting ice – you just need to look at how quickly an ice cube melts in a glass of water. When the ice has melted and the water begins to flow, shut it off at the street. Remove the temporary shutoff valve and reconnect the main water supply to your home.

✓ Additional Reading : Study – Freezing phenomena in PVC and CPVC pipe systems (from the Madison Group)

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VIDEO | How to Insulate Water Lines in Alaska

Common Pipe Materials Used in Homes

When it comes to pipes, there are a few different materials to choose from. Some of the most common include copper, PVC, PEX, and CPVC. Each of these materials has its own set of pros and cons, and it’s important to consider which one is right for your needs.

Copper pipes can last a long time; on average they last about 50 years but it’s uncommon them to last up to 80 years. They’re known for their durability and long lifespan but they’re not great in freezing temperatures. One of their drawbacks is they have little flex and they lose heat quickly. This makes them one of the worst materials if you live in an area that gets ultra-cold for long periods of time.

Copper is strong material — naturally resistant to corrosion and high temperatures which is why it’s a popular choice for both hot and cold water systems. However, copper pipes can be expensive.

PVC pipes are also a popular choice for both hot and cold water systems. They’re lightweight, easy to install, and relatively inexpensive. However, PVC pipes are not as durable as copper and may not be suitable for high-pressure systems. PVC is a type of plastic which means they’re not affected by the pH of the water or corrosion. They have more flex than copper and have a maximum lifespan of 50 years but are more likely to last 30 to 40 years, on average.

PEX pipes, also known as cross-linked polyethylene pipes, are a newer type of plastic piping that has become increasingly popular in recent years. They’re flexible, easy to install, and resistant to corrosion and freezing temperatures. PEX pipes are available in three different types, PEX-a, PEX-b, and PEX-c:

• Pex-a pipes are made using a peroxide-based process, which results in a pipe with a high level of crosslinking. This makes Pex-a pipes extremely strong and durable, and they’re often used in high-pressure applications such as hot water lines and radiant heating systems. Ideal for cold temperatures due to its flexible properties. The most expensive of the 3 types but the best for longevity and durability.
• Pex-b pipes are made using a silane-based process, which results in a pipe with a lower level of crosslinking compared to Pex-a. Pex-b pipes are still strong and durable, but not quite as resistant to high pressures as Pex-a. You’ll typically find these in residential plumbing applications.
• Pex-c pipes are made using an irradiation process, which results in a pipe with an intermediate level of crosslinking between Pex-a and Pex-b. Pex-c pipes are strong and durable, and are often used in a variety of plumbing and heating applications. Problem is they’re still so these aren’t ideal for freezing temperatures. These are the cheapest of all three types. Learn more about the science of Pex.

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes are made from a strong, durable plastic material resistant to many environmental factors, including the cold. In fact, HDPE pipes are often used in cold weather regions because they’re resistant to cracking and breaking. HDPE pipes are also corrosion-resistant with a long lifespan, making them a good value overall. You’ll find them commonly used in water mains, irrigation systems, sewage and drainage systems, as well as for natural gas distribution and oil and gas production.

Overall, HDPE pipes are a good choice for warm and cold climates. It wouldn’t be uncommon to have these type of pipes last around 100 years, which is crazy when you think about it. Most people say you get about 50 years of life from them, but the truth is much longer. This is why they’re used for a wide range of applications.

EPDM, or ethylene propylene diene monomer, is a type of rubber that is often used in the construction of pipes, particularly for water and sewage systems. It is known for its durability and flexibility, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications. EPDM pipes are still used today and are known for their resistance to weathering, UV radiation, and temperature fluctuations, which makes them a good choice for outdoor plumbing systems.

CPVC pipes, or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride pipes, are another type of plastic piping that is commonly used for hot pipe materials. These pipes are often used for residential and commercial plumbing, as well as for irrigation systems. CPVC pipes are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion, which makes them a popular choice for many homeowners. However, it’s important to note that these pipes are not recommended for use in areas with high chlorine levels, as the chlorine can corrode the pipes over time. CPVC has a lifespan of 50 to 80 years with an average lifespan of about 60 years.

There are several things that homeowners can do to extend the life of their pipes and prevent them from breaking, cracking, or bursting. These include:

1. Insulate your pipes: This can help prevent your pipes from freezing in cold weather, which can cause them to burst.
2. Fix any leaks immediately: If you notice a leak in your pipes, be sure to fix it as soon as possible. Leaks can cause damage to your pipes over time and can lead to more serious problems if left unchecked.
3. Replace old pipes: If your pipes are old and showing signs of wear and tear, consider replacing them with newer, more durable materials.
4. Practice regular maintenance: This can include cleaning your pipes regularly to remove any build-up of debris or sediment, which can cause blockages and lead to damage.
5. Avoid using harsh chemicals: Some cleaners and other chemical products can be harsh on pipes and can cause them to become damaged or weakened over time. Try using natural cleaning products instead.

Finally, it would be wise for all homeowners have their pipes inspected by a professional plumber on a regular basis. Technology has advanced a lot over the past few years where thermal imaging can spot moisture in your walls caused by leaks. The earlier you spot a problem the better chance you have at preventing a disaster down the road. Having a professional take a snapshot of your pipes every year would be a good idea. I always feel it’s a good idea to spend money to save money in the long-run.

Review: Freeze Miser

Best Automated Solution. Drips water as soon as water temperature reaches 3°C (not air temperature).

Key Features:

• Prevents freezing in outdoor water sources, even in extreme temperatures or for long periods of time
• Releases minimal amount of water to prevent freezing
• Senses internal water temperature and automatically regulates drip-rate
• Easy to install with hand-tightening onto faucet
• Comes with 2-year limited warranty
• Made in the USA with over 17 years of experience in temperature-activated ice prevention valves
• Operates like a thermostat, sensing internal water temperature and activating when it drops below 37°F/3°C
• On guard 24/7 to prevent freezing

Overview / Freeze Miser

The Freeze Miser is a device that is designed to prevent your outdoor faucets from freezing and bursting during cold weather. It works by sensing the temperature of the water in the faucet and automatically shutting off the flow of water when it reaches a certain temperature. This helps to prevent the water from freezing and causing damage to the pipes.

The idea behind the design is so simple and yet the outcome is exceptional. It solves the problem that homeowners have of preventing pipes from freezing, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t insulate your pipes. You’re still vulnerable to having a pipe burst if you rely on this product alone.

The company spent 7 years of research and development to develop the Freeze Miser so it wasn’t as simple as it looks. The quality of materials are excellent. This is built to high standards so you should feel good about buying it, knowing it will last you a long time.

VIDEO : A Closer Look at the Freeze Miser

To use the Freeze Miser, you simply attach it to your outdoor faucet and turn it on. The device has a built-in thermostat that you can set to the desired temperature. When the water reaches that temperature, the Freeze Miser will automatically shut off the flow of water to the faucet. This can help to protect your pipes and prevent costly repairs.

Overall, customers seem to be satisfied with the Freeze Miser. Most customers say that it’s easy to install and that its been effective in preventing their outdoor faucets from freezing and bursting. Some customers have even reported using the Freeze Miser for multiple winters without any issues. That being said, it’s always a good idea to take other precautions as well, like insulating your pipes. This can help to provide an extra layer of protection and reduce the risk of freezing and bursting.

Q&A: Common Questions Answered

Why do pipes burst in the winter?

So, let’s talk about what causes pipes to freeze in the first place. Why do pipes burst in the winter? It all has to do with the way water expands as it freezes. When the temperature outside drops below freezing, the water inside your pipes can freeze, depending on how exposed your pipes are to the cold air. Pipes are more likely to freeze if they’re not properly insulated or if they are located in an unheated area of your home, such as a crawl space or basement.

When water freezes, it increases in volume by about 9%. This expansion puts pressure on the walls of the pipe, and if the pipe is not able to withstand the pressure, it can crack or burst. The older the pipe, the more likely it is to crack or burst. Pipes weaken over time, especially if you don’t take care of them.

You’ve probably noticed that pipes are made from a variety of materials, and some are more prone to bursting than others. For example, pipes made of metal, such as copper or steel, are more likely to burst when they freeze because they are not as flexible as other types of pipes. Plastic pipes, such as PVC and PEX, are generally more flexible and less likely to burst when they freeze, although they can still be damaged if the pressure from the expanding water is too great.

In general, the best way to prevent pipes from breaking is to properly insulate them and keep them in good condition. This will help to keep the heat in and the cold out, while reducing the risk of bursting. Ultimately, expanding water is at the heart of a broken pipe. It’s that simple. I recommend that you ensure your pipes are properly insulated before you get your first cold snap of winter.

Another thing you can do is keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature. This will help raise the overall temperature in the walls of your home, which will prevent vulnerable pipes from freezing.

It’s also a good idea to disconnect and drain any outdoor hoses, and to make sure that any outdoor faucets are turned off and properly winterized. This will help to prevent water from sitting in the pipes and freezing.

Finally, if you’re going to be away from home for an extended period of time during the winter, it would be wise to have someone check on your home periodically to make sure everything is in good working order and your pipes are not frozen.

A little bit of prevention can go a long way in avoiding costly repairs and headaches down the line. These fairly simple actions can save you a lot of frustration (and money) down the road. The damage from a broken pipe can be expensive if your insurance doesn’t cover it. Do you have insurance?

Ceramic Pipe Heat Tape + Wrap / Locks in Heat

How do I keep pipes from freezing in the crawl space?

Yes, using a space heater can be an effective way to prevent your crawl space pipes from freezing. By heating the crawl space, you can help to keep the air temperature above freezing, which will in turn help to keep the pipes warm and prevent them from freezing.

There are a few things to consider when using a space heater to prevent your crawl space pipes from freezing:

• Make sure the space heater is properly sized for the crawl space. You don’t want a heater that’s too small, because it may not be able to keep the space warm enough. On the other hand, a heater that’s too large could create a fire hazard. You need to find a suitable size that will fit comfortably in the space.
• Choose a space heater that is specifically designed for use in a crawl space. These heaters are typically smaller and more portable, and they are designed to be used in tight, enclosed spaces.
• Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the space heater, including any safety precautions. Space heaters can be a fire hazard if they’re not used properly. Err on the side of caution.
• Consider using a thermostat to control the temperature in the crawl space. This will help ensure that the space heater is only running when it is needed, which can help to save energy and reduce your heating costs.

What’s the best type of heater to use?

Overall, using a space heater can be an effective way to prevent your crawl space pipes from freezing, as long as you use it safely and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. By keeping the space warm you should be able to help prevent your pipes from freezing & avoid costly repairs.

There are several factors to consider, such as: the size of the crawl space, the type of heating system you have, and your budget are all important things to think about when choosing a heater.

One option to consider is an electric space heater. These heaters are generally easy to install and use, and they are a good choice for small or medium-sized crawl spaces. They can be plugged into an electrical outlet and are available in a variety of styles, including baseboard heaters, convection heaters, and radiant heaters. Electric space heaters are generally less powerful than gas heaters, but they are more efficient and easier to install. They are also a good choice for crawl spaces that don’t have access to a gas line.

Another good option to consider is a gas space heater. These heaters are a good choice for larger crawl spaces or for areas where an electrical outlet is not available. They run on natural gas or propane and are typically more powerful than electric heaters. However, they do require a gas line and proper ventilation, and they may not be suitable for all crawl spaces. Gas heaters are generally more expensive to install and operate than electric heaters, but they can be a good choice for larger spaces or for areas where the electricity is not reliable.

Finally, you might consider a forced-air heater for your basement or crawl space. These heaters use a fan to circulate warm air throughout the space, and they’re a great choice for larger crawl spaces or for areas where there is poor insulation. Forced-air heaters can be noisy so bear that in mind. They’re also more expensive to install and operate compared to electric heaters. In general, they’re more complex.

Ultimately, the best type of heater for your crawl space will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. It’s a good idea to consult with a professional heating and cooling contractor to determine the best heater for your crawl space and to ensure that it is properly installed and maintained. By taking the time to choose the right heater, you can help to keep your pipes from freezing and avoid costly repairs down the line.

How do I keep outside water pipes from freezing?

Let’s start with a simple list of actionable things you can do:

• Insulate pipes in attics and crawl spaces with fiberglass or foam insulation sleeves
• Drain and enclose exterior pipes in 2-inch fiberglass insulation sleeves
• Keep cabinet doors under sinks open during cold weather to circulate warmer air around pipes
• Shut off and drain exterior pipes at the start of winter, or have a shut-off valve installed by a plumber
  Remove and store hoses inside during winter
• Use heating cables and tapes with UL labels and built-in thermostats for freeze protection
• Let faucets drip slowly to keep water flowing and prevent pressure build-up in vulnerable pipes

When it comes to keeping your outdoor water pipes from freezing, there are a few key steps you can take to protect them. As a plumber, many years ago, I saw firsthand the damage that frozen pipes can cause, and it’s not pretty. Trust me, you don’t want that emergency call at 2am, having to respond to someone in a panic who needs your help due to a burst pipe in their front-yard.

Once again, prevention is your best bet.

For starters, you need to consider insulating your pipes. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or complex. This can be as simple as wrapping them with foam insulation sleeves or blankets, which you can find at most hardware stores. It’s a cheap and easy way to add an extra layer of protection against the cold. Just be sure to wrap the insulation securely and check it regularly to make sure it’s still in good condition.

Another important step is to drain your outdoor water pipes before the cold weather hits. This means disconnecting any hoses and turning off the water supply to your outdoor faucets. By emptying the pipes of water, you can help to reduce the risk of freezing and bursting.

During extreme cold weather, you might consider leaving your outdoor faucets open a bit to allow a small trickle of water to flow. This can help to prevent the water in the pipes from freezing. Just be sure to turn the faucets off when the weather warms up to prevent any water waste.

Heat tape is another option to consider. This is a special tape that can be wrapped around your outdoor pipes to provide a constant source of heat. It’s easy to install and can be a lifesaver if you’re dealing with extreme cold. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use it safely.

Either way, if you have exposed pipes outside, it’s a good idea to cover them with a pipe cover or a wrap to keep your pipes warm, in the same way you would a baby. This can help to protect the pipes from the cold and reduce the risk of freezing. Pipe covers, tapes, and wraps are available at most hardware stores, online, and can be easily added to existing pipes, as long as you have access.

I’ve had to deal with many frozen pipes in my life, and outdoor pipes were as common as indoor pipes bursting. It happens all the time, every winter, but it’s always a surprise to the homeowner. An outdoor pipe bursting generally causes less damage than if a pipe bursts inside your home, so between the two, I’ll take an outside break anytime. In truth, the point of this article is to let people know they can do a lot to prevent it from happening to them.

By taking a few simple precautions, you can ensure this never happens to you.

Do Pex pipes freeze?

PEX pipes, or cross-linked polyethylene pipes, are a type of flexible plastic piping that is commonly used in residential and commercial plumbing systems. They have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their durability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. PEX pipes are also resistant to corrosion and can withstand high temperatures, making them a good choice for hot water systems.

As for whether or not PEX pipes freeze, it’s important to note that all pipes are susceptible to freezing if the water inside them is allowed to freeze. However, PEX pipes are generally more resistant to freezing than other types of pipes, like copper or PVC. This is because PEX pipes have a higher expansion rate, which means they can expand and contract more without breaking. This can help to reduce the risk of bursting when the water inside the pipes freeze.

That being said, it’s still important to take steps to prevent your PEX pipes from freezing, especially if they are exposed to cold temperatures. This might include insulating the pipes, keeping the water flowing, or using heat tape to provide warmth. By taking these precautions, you can help to protect your PEX pipes and reduce the risk of freezing and bursting.