Preventing pipes from freezing in Spokane Valley requires insulation, consistent heating, and water flow management. When temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C), unprotected pipes can freeze, leading to blockages, leaks, and potential bursts. Spokane Valley’s harsh winters make frozen pipes a common issue, causing costly water damage and plumbing emergencies. This guide covers the best ways to keep pipes from freezing and what to do if they freeze.
Why Do Pipes Freeze in Spokane Valley?
Spokane Valley experiences extreme winter conditions that frequently lead to frozen pipes. During a late-2022 deep freeze, the Spokane Fire Department handled over 60 frozen pipe calls in just 48 hours, highlighting the widespread nature of this issue.
Additionally, local plumbing services reported receiving over 300 emergency calls during a severe cold snap. These numbers reflect the urgent need for pipe protection strategies.
Water expands when it freezes, exerting pressure on pipes. If water supply lines are not insulated properly, the expansion can cause bursting or leaking pipes. Key risk factors include:
- Outdoor temperatures below freezing for extended periods.
- Poor insulation around water supply lines.
- Pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, or garages.
- Sudden temperature drops that catch homeowners unprepared.
Signs of Frozen Pipes
Each winter, hundreds of Spokane Valley residents face frozen pipe emergencies. In January 2024 alone, the Spokane Valley Fire Department responded to 179 alarm calls triggered by frozen or burst pipes, proving that freezing temperatures can have severe consequences. Knowing when pipes are frozen can help prevent costly damage.
Look for:
- No water flow from faucets or fixtures.
- Frost buildup on exposed pipes.
- Unusual odors from clogged drains or faucets.
- Strange noises like gurgling or clanking when turning on taps.
If pipes freeze, call Mr. Rooter to minimize damage.
How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing
1. Insulate Pipes Properly
Protecting vulnerable pipes is the most effective prevention method. Use foam pipe insulation for pipes in unheated areas, including:
- Attics and basements
- Crawl spaces
- Exterior walls
- Garages
Adding insulation around water heaters and outdoor spigots further reduces freezing risks. For extra protection, consider pipe heating cables that automatically warm pipes during cold weather.
2. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Cold air entering through foundation cracks or wall gaps can lead to frozen pipes. Seal openings with caulk or expanding foam to block drafts near plumbing lines.
- Inspect areas around doors, windows, and vents.
- Close any small openings near pipes and water supply lines.
- Add weather stripping to garage doors to limit cold exposure.
3. Keep the Heat On
Maintaining indoor temperatures above 55°F prevents pipes from freezing. Even when leaving home, set the thermostat to keep the pipes warm.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation.
- Keep interior doors open to distribute heat evenly.
- If leaving for an extended period, ask someone to check the heating system regularly.
4. Let Faucets Drip
Running water prevents pressure buildup inside pipes. During freezing temperatures:
- Allow faucets to drip slightly, especially at night.
- Focus on pipes along exterior walls and unheated areas.
- Use both hot and cold water taps for balanced flow.
5. Drain Outdoor Water Lines
Exterior plumbing is highly vulnerable to freezing. Before winter:
- Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets.
- Shut off exterior water supply valves.
- Blow out sprinkler systems to remove residual water.
What to Do If Pipes Freeze
Ignoring frozen pipes can lead to expensive repairs. The average cost of fixing a burst pipe can range from $10,000 to $20,000, and in extreme cases, such as the Post Falls Library incident, damages exceeded $1 million. These high costs make it crucial to act quickly when pipes freeze.
1. Locate the Frozen Section
Start by checking pipes in unheated spaces like attics, basements, or crawl spaces. Look for sections covered in frost or ice.
2. Apply Heat Gradually
Slowly warming frozen pipes prevents sudden bursts. Use:
- Hair dryers or heating pads.
- Space heaters placed near affected areas.
- Towels soaked in warm water wrapped around pipes.
Avoid using open flames or propane torches, as these pose fire hazards.
3. Turn on Faucets
Opening taps allow melting ice to flow out. Keep water running while applying heat to help clear blockages.
4. Check for Leaks
Once pipes thaw, inspect for dripping or visible cracks. Leaking pipes may require professional pipe lining or relining to restore function without a full replacement. For hidden damage, scheduling leak detection services can help identify potential weak points before they worsen.
Long-Term Solutions for Preventing Frozen Pipes
Spokane Valley’s extreme winter conditions make prevention a priority. Since an extended freeze can dramatically increase frozen pipe incidents, many homeowners are investing in preventive solutions like whole-home water circulation systems and pipe insulation upgrades to avoid costly repairs.
1. Upgrade to Freeze-Resistant Pipes
Homes in cold regions benefit from PEX or copper pipes, which are less prone to bursting than PVC. Professional pipe lining services can also reinforce aging pipes, reducing the risk of damage.
2. Install a Smart Leak Detection System
Leak detection technology alerts homeowners to pipe damage before major issues occur. Early detection helps prevent water damage and costly repairs. Scheduling regular inspections with plumbing professionals can further minimize risks.
3. Schedule Regular Pipe Inspections
Plumbers can check for weak points, small leaks, or potential freezing risks. Professional hydro jetting services clear buildup in pipes, improving flow and reducing blockages that can contribute to freezing.
4. Consider a Whole-Home Water Circulation System
These systems keep water moving, reducing the risk of freezing. Circulating warm water through pipes maintains consistent temperatures during extreme cold.
Why Spokane Valley Homeowners Need Professional Help
While DIY solutions work for minor pipe issues, severe freezing can lead to pipe bursts, water damage, and costly repairs. Spokane Valley’s harsh winters make professional maintenance essential.
- Pipe lining and relining prevent costly replacements.
- Leak detection services catch issues before they become major problems.
- Hydro jetting removes ice blockages and clears frozen drains efficiently.
- Emergency plumbing services are available for urgent pipe repairs.
Call for Professional Pipe Protection in Spokane Valley
Frozen pipes can cause significant damage if not handled quickly. If you suspect a problem, call us in Spokane Valley for expert frozen pipe solutions, leak detection, and pipe repair services. Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your plumbing today!
