How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter in Grand Junction, CO
Simple steps homeowners can take — and what to do if a pipe already froze
Winters across the Grand Valley can drop well below freezing overnight, and pipes running through uninsulated crawl spaces, garages, or exterior walls are especially at risk. A frozen pipe isn’t just an inconvenience — if it bursts, it can cause serious water damage in a matter of hours.
Simple Prevention Steps You Can Do Yourself
- Insulate exposed pipes. Foam pipe sleeves from any hardware store are inexpensive and take minutes to install on pipes in crawl spaces, garages, and attics.
- Seal air leaks. Check for drafts near where pipes enter the house and seal gaps with caulk or spray foam.
- Let faucets drip during extreme cold. A slow, steady drip keeps water moving, which helps prevent freezing in vulnerable pipes.
- Keep the heat on, even when away. Don’t set your thermostat below 55°F, even if you’re leaving town for a few days.
- Open cabinet doors. For sinks on exterior walls, opening the cabinet doors lets warm household air reach the pipes underneath.
Signs a Pipe May Already Be Frozen
- No water, or very low pressure, from a specific faucet
- Frost visible on an exposed section of pipe
- Unusual smell coming from a drain or faucet (a sign of a blockage from ice)
If you suspect a frozen pipe: Keep the faucet open, apply gentle heat to the pipe (a hair dryer or heating pad works — never an open flame), and shut off your main water valve if you notice any bulging or cracking. If you can’t locate the frozen section, or the pipe has already burst, stop and call a plumber immediately.
When to Call a Professional
Thawing a pipe yourself is only safe when you can clearly see and access the frozen section. If the freeze is inside a wall, underground, or you’re not sure where it is, trying to force a thaw can cause a burst pipe you don’t discover until water is already flooding your home.
A little preparation before winter hits goes a long way toward avoiding an emergency call at 2 AM.