North Carolina winters are mild on average, but the Triangle regularly sees sudden overnight freezes that catch homeowners off guard. Pipes in unheated crawlspaces, garages, and exterior walls are the most vulnerable.
The simplest protection is insulation. Wrap exposed pipes with foam sleeves, and seal drafts near pipe runs. On the coldest nights, let a faucet drip slightly so water keeps moving, which relieves the pressure that actually causes a burst.
Disconnect and drain garden hoses before the first freeze, and shut off and drain exterior hose bibs if they are not frost-proof. Know where your main shutoff valve is so you can stop the water fast if a pipe does fail.
If a pipe freezes, do not use an open flame to thaw it. Apply gentle heat with a hair dryer and call a licensed plumber if you suspect a crack. Prevention is far cheaper than repairing water damage.
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