Fluctuating Temperatures and Pipe Bursts: What You Need to Know

12/3/2024 (Permalink)

As the weather shifts between cold and warm temperatures, it can lead to unexpected issues for homeowners—especially when it comes to plumbing. Fluctuating temperatures, especially during winter months, are a leading cause of pipe bursts, and understanding why this happens can help you prevent costly damage to your home.

Why Do Pipes Burst?

When temperatures drop rapidly, water inside pipes can freeze. As water freezes, it expands, creating pressure within the pipe. This buildup of pressure can cause pipes to crack or burst, often in areas that are poorly insulated, like basements, attics, or exterior walls. Even brief periods of freezing temperatures followed by a quick warm-up can trigger this problem.

The Danger of Thawing and Re-freezing

What makes fluctuating temperatures particularly dangerous is the cycle of thawing and refreezing. Pipes that freeze overnight may begin to thaw when the temperature rises during the day. As they thaw, the pressure that had built up may suddenly cause the pipe to crack or rupture. If temperatures drop again, the same pipes could refreeze and cause even more damage.

Preventing Pipe Bursts

Here are a few tips to help protect your pipes during temperature fluctuations:

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use pipe insulation or heating tape in areas that are prone to freezing. This is especially important for outdoor faucets, basements, and crawl spaces.

2. Keep Cabinet Doors Open: If you have plumbing running through cabinets in exterior walls, such as under kitchen or bathroom sinks, leave the cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

3. Let Faucets Drip: On very cold nights, leaving a small stream of water running through faucets can help keep the water moving and prevent freezing.

4. Seal Gaps: Check for cracks or gaps around windows, doors, or pipes, and seal them to prevent cold air from reaching your plumbing.

5. Keep Thermostat Stable: Avoid dramatic changes in indoor temperatures. Keeping your home at a consistent temperature, even when you're not home, can prevent freezing.

What to Do if a Pipe Bursts

If a pipe does burst, quick action is critical. Shut off your water supply immediately to prevent flooding. Then, contact a plumber to assess the damage and begin repairs. If you can safely access the area, try to thaw the frozen section of the pipe with a hairdryer or space heater to relieve the pressure, but be cautious to avoid further damage.

In summary, fluctuating temperatures can be hard on your home’s plumbing, but with a little preparation, you can avoid costly pipe bursts and the headaches they bring. By insulating pipes, sealing gaps, and monitoring indoor temperatures, you can reduce the risk of damage and keep your home safe throughout the winter season.