Why Texas homes are vulnerable
Many Texas homes run pipes through attics, exterior walls and garages because the climate is mild most of the year. When a hard freeze arrives, those pipes are exposed. The February 2021 winter storm showed how quickly frozen pipes can turn into burst pipes across the state.
Before a freeze
Insulate pipes in attics, crawlspaces and exterior walls. Disconnect garden hoses and cover outdoor faucets or upgrade to frost-free hose bibs. Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls. Let faucets drip during hard freezes. Know where your main shut-off valve is.
If a pipe freezes
If a faucet produces little or no water during a freeze, a pipe may be frozen. Keep the faucet open and apply gentle heat, such as a hair dryer or space heater kept at a safe distance. Never use an open flame.
If you cannot locate or safely reach the frozen section, call a plumber. Our frozen pipe repair team can thaw lines safely.
If a pipe bursts
Shut off the main water valve immediately, turn off electricity in wet areas if safe, and call our 24/7 emergency plumbers. We repair the break and check for other splits. For homes with repeated freeze damage, repiping with PEX can help.
Quick Answers
At what temperature do pipes freeze in Texas?
Risk increases when temperatures stay below about 20°F for several hours, especially for exposed pipes.
Should I drip all faucets?
Drip faucets on exterior walls and those fed by exposed pipes.