Frozen pipes are more than just a winter inconvenience. While frozen, they restrict your water flow, and once they thaw, they can lead to significant leaks. A burst pipe can cause major damage and be very costly to repair.

While North Carolina and South Carolina don’t typically experience deep freezes, there is still a risk of frozen pipes. In fact, many more southern states are not as equipped to handle freezing temperatures, which can result in more costly damage. A recent State Farm press release revealed that Georgia was the #1 state for frozen pipe losses, with $100 million in claim costs.

Prevent Frozen Pipes With a Temporary Heating Solution

frozen pipes

If you have an active construction project or operate a business with pipes at risk of freezing, it’s wise to rent a temporary heater for the winter months. Even if you don’t see an immediate threat, factors like power outages, severe cold, or HVAC maintenance can quickly create serious issues without warning.

Be prepared by using a temporary heater during winter. Smaller units can be placed in the most vulnerable areas to help distribute warmth and prevent freezing.

Construction sites and businesses should always keep a heater on hand for emergencies. A sudden power loss or sharp temperature drop can cause major damage. Having a heater ready is a small investment compared to the cost of repairing burst pipes.

Remember Your Sprinkler Systems!

If water flow is blocked, your fire protection sprinkler system could freeze in cold weather. In severe winter conditions, emergency response times from the fire department may also be delayed.

Which Pipes are Most Likely to Freeze?

Pipes can freeze when there’s a big drop in temperature, a pipe has poor insulation, or a thermostat is set too low.

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety warns that warmer-climate areas are often more at risk of frozen pipes because they are less likely to be protected.

“Homeowners who live in these regions should pay close attention to areas of the home with exposed pipes, as well as crawl spaces and exterior hose spigots, which will be vulnerable when temperatures drop below freezing.”

In colder climates, pipes are buried underground, but that’s not the case for much of NC and SC. Because of the higher water table, pipes can’t be buried very far underground. Hose bibs and irrigation lines are also often not frost-proof, since deep freezes aren’t frequent.

Age is another factor: older pipes are often more prone to freezing.

Our Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes

Here are several ways to prevent pipes from freezing:
heater in snow

  • Insulate any pipes located on outside walls. Also, close valves that supply water to outdoor spigots.
  • Use an extra heater during winter to help spread warmth.
  • Add pipe insulation in unheated spaces like attics, basements, garages, or crawl spaces.
  • Seal drafts from windows and vents.
  • Allow a small stream of water to flow from faucets when temperatures drop below freezing.
  • In homes or small businesses, keep the thermostat at a minimum of 55°F at all times. Larger buildings should maintain at least 40°F in areas with vulnerable systems, such as wet-pipe sprinklers and fire pump rooms.
  • Keep doors and cabinet fronts open to help heat reach pipes.

Pipes Already Frozen: What Should You Do?

If water isn’t flowing normally from a pipe, it’s likely frozen. Follow these steps to thaw the pipes before they crack and leak:

  • If multiple pipes are frozen, turn off the main water supply and contact a plumber.
  • If only one pipe is frozen, turn on the faucet to help water flow once it thaws. Don’t shut off the water supply unless you suspect a burst pipe.
  • Use a hairdryer to gently warm the pipe, starting at the faucet and moving backward along the pipe. Keep warming until full water pressure returns.
  • If you notice any leaks while warming the pipe, close the nearest shut-off valve and call a plumber to repair the damage.
  • In case of flooding from a burst pipe, consider renting a dehumidifier to help with water damage cleanup.

Be Prepared for an Emergency

It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your business or home during a freeze! Be prepared with temporary heater rentals to avoid major damage. Cold Air Rentals offers short-term and long-term rental options and can guide you through the rental process.