Preventing Frozen Pipes: Keep the Water Flowing All Winter
(Part 2 of the 3 Winter Plumbing Series from Gideon’s Plumbing)
When the temperature plunges in Buffalo and across Western New York, frozen pipes become one of the biggest threats to your home’s plumbing system. A single burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in water damage, and it often happens when homeowners least expect it.
At Gideon’s Plumbing, we help families in Buffalo, Amherst, Orchard Park, and Hamburg prepare their homes for the coldest months with excellent service, expert repairs, and new installs that stand up to our brutal winters.
Here’s how to keep your pipes from freezing and what to do if it happens.
1. Keep Water Moving
Water that sits still in a cold pipe is much more likely to freeze. On nights when the temperature dips below freezing, let your faucets drip slightly. Even a slow trickle helps relieve pressure and keeps water moving enough to prevent ice buildup.
If your home has multiple stories, focus on faucets along exterior walls or in colder rooms like basements and laundry areas. This small step can save you from major repairs later on.
2. Open Cabinets and Interior Doors
Many homes in Amherst and Orchard Park have plumbing lines that run under sinks or inside cabinets, places that can get chilly when the doors are closed. Keep those cabinet doors open during extreme cold to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
Likewise, open interior doors throughout your home to ensure heat flows evenly, especially in rooms that aren’t used often.
3. Seal Cracks and Drafts
Cold air sneaking into your home through cracks or gaps can quickly freeze pipes near exterior walls. Check around windows, doors, foundation walls, and where pipes enter your home. Use caulk or insulation to seal gaps and stop cold air from getting in.
If you’re unsure where those problem spots are, Gideon’s Plumbing can perform a winter plumbing inspection to identify vulnerable areas and recommend the best solutions whether that means insulation, rerouting, or new installs for long-term protection.
4. Keep the Heat On
If you plan to be away from your home, don’t turn the heat off completely. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F. The cost of maintaining some heat is minimal compared to the cost of water damage from frozen or burst pipes.
For vacation homes or rentals in the Buffalo or Hamburg area, consider a smart thermostat that lets you monitor and adjust temperatures remotely. Our technicians can help install these energy-efficient systems safely and correctly.
5. Know the Warning Signs of a Frozen Pipe
Catching a frozen pipe early can prevent it from bursting. Here are a few red flags to watch for:
-Little or no water coming from a faucet
-Frost visible on pipes
-Strange noises when turning on the tap
-Unexplained drops in water pressure
If you notice any of these signs, act quickly. Turn off the main water supply and call Gideon’s Plumbing for emergency repairs. Our team has the tools and experience to thaw pipes safely without causing damage.
6. Never Use Open Flames to Thaw Pipes
It can be tempting to grab a blowtorch or lighter, but open flames are extremely dangerous and can cause fires or crack pipes. Instead, use a hair dryer, space heater, or warm towels to gently heat the frozen section.
If you can’t access the pipe or aren’t sure where the freeze occurred, our experts can handle it for you safely and efficiently.
Stay Ahead of Winter Plumbing Problems
At Gideon’s Plumbing, we believe prevention is the best protection. Homeowners across Buffalo, Amherst, Orchard Park, and Hamburg rely on our excellent service for:
-Emergency frozen pipe repairs
-Pipe insulation and rerouting
-Water heater new installs
-Smart plumbing solutions to prevent future issues
Coming Next: Part 3 Winterizing Your Whole Plumbing System
In the final part of our Winter Plumbing Series, we’ll share a complete winterization checklist to keep your plumbing in top shape from December through spring.
Until then, stay warm, keep your pipes protected, and remember this. If you need help, Gideon’s Plumbing is always ready with trusted service, expert solutions, and dependable care for your Western New York home.
Protect your plumbing before problems freeze your plans.
Call Gideon’s Plumbing today for expert winter service in all the areas surrounding Buffalo, including Hamburg, Amherst, and Orchard Park.