Why -20°F Temperatures Are Dangerous for Plumbing

When temperatures fall to -20°F, plumbing systems are under extreme stress. At this level of cold, pipes can freeze rapidly, even in homes that are normally well protected. As water freezes, it expands, creating intense pressure inside pipes. This pressure is what causes pipes to crack or burst, often leading to significant water damage once temperatures rise.

Homes in colder climates, older properties, and buildings with plumbing in exterior walls or unheated spaces face the greatest risk during these conditions.

Keep Indoor Temperatures Consistent

One of the most effective ways to protect your plumbing is maintaining consistent indoor heat.

• Keep thermostats set to the same temperature day and night
• Avoid lowering heat settings overnight to save energy
• Maintain heat in basements, crawl spaces, and utility rooms

Even a short drop in indoor temperature during extreme cold can allow pipes to freeze.

Protect Exposed and Vulnerable Pipes

Pipes located in exterior walls, garages, crawl spaces, and basements are most susceptible to freezing.

Steps to take include:

• Insulating exposed pipes with foam sleeves or pipe wrap
• Sealing gaps or cracks near pipes where cold air can enter
• Closing garage doors to retain warmer air

Insulation helps slow heat loss and reduces the chance of freezing.

Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold

Allowing faucets to drip slightly can relieve pressure inside pipes and keep water moving. Flowing water is less likely to freeze than standing water.

Focus on:

• Faucets connected to exterior walls
• Bathrooms or kitchens farthest from the water main

A slow, steady drip can make a significant difference during extreme cold snaps.

Open Cabinet Doors

Opening cabinet doors under sinks allows warm air to circulate around pipes that are normally enclosed. This is especially important in kitchens and bathrooms located on exterior walls.

Be sure to remove any household items that could block airflow around plumbing.

Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Plumbing

Outdoor plumbing components are highly vulnerable in subzero temperatures.

Before temperatures reach extreme lows:

• Disconnect garden hoses
• Shut off outdoor water supply valves
• Drain exterior spigots completely

Water left in outdoor lines can freeze quickly and cause cracks that lead to leaks in spring.

Know Where Your Main Water Shutoff Is

If a pipe does burst, shutting off the main water supply quickly can limit damage. Every homeowner should know the location of their main shutoff valve and ensure it is accessible.

If you suspect a pipe has frozen but not yet burst, turning off the water may prevent flooding when the ice begins to thaw.

Watch for Warning Signs

Early signs of freezing pipes include:

• Reduced water flow
• Frost on exposed pipes
• Unusual noises when turning on faucets
• Strange odors from drains

If you notice any of these symptoms, act immediately.

What Not to Do During Extreme Cold

Avoid using open flames, torches, or high heat sources to warm pipes. These methods can damage pipes and create serious fire hazards. Gradual, controlled warming is always safest.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If multiple fixtures stop working, pipes are inaccessible, or you suspect a frozen or burst pipe, professional plumbing service is essential. Experienced plumbers have the tools and expertise to safely thaw pipes and repair damage before it spreads.

Stay Ahead of Extreme Cold

Preparing your plumbing before temperatures drop to -20°F can help prevent emergencies, protect your home, and save thousands in repair costs. A proactive approach and quick action during extreme cold are the best defenses against winter plumbing damage.

The post How to Protect Your Plumbing as Temperatures Dip to -20°F appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Serious Winter Problem

Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costly plumbing issues during winter. When temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and create pressure that leads to cracks or full pipe bursts. Knowing how to recognize frozen pipes early can help prevent extensive water damage and emergency repairs.

Common Signs Your Pipes May Be Frozen

Frozen pipes often show warning signs before major damage occurs. Paying attention to these indicators can save time, money, and stress.

Little or No Water Flow

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle of water comes out, or nothing at all, there may be ice blocking the pipe. This often happens in exterior walls, basements, crawl spaces, or under sinks near outside walls.

Frost on Exposed Pipes

Visible frost or ice buildup on exposed pipes is a clear sign that freezing has already started. This is common in unheated areas like garages or utility rooms.

Strange Smells From Drains or Faucets

When pipes freeze, odors can become trapped behind the ice blockage. If you notice unusual smells coming from a drain or faucet, frozen pipes could be the cause.

Unusual Noises

Banging, whistling, or gurgling sounds when you turn on water can indicate pressure buildup caused by ice inside the pipe.

Areas Most at Risk for Frozen Pipes

Certain locations in your home are more vulnerable during cold weather.

• Pipes in exterior walls
• Basements and crawl spaces
• Garages and utility rooms
• Under kitchen and bathroom sinks
• Outdoor spigots and hose bibs

Homes with poor insulation or older plumbing systems face a higher risk.

Why Frozen Pipes Are Dangerous

The real danger often happens after the pipe thaws. As ice melts, cracks or weak points can release large amounts of water into walls, ceilings, and floors. This can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and costly repairs.

What To Do If You Suspect Frozen Pipes

If you believe a pipe is frozen, act quickly but carefully.

• Keep the faucet open slightly to relieve pressure
• Avoid using open flames to warm pipes
• Turn off the main water supply if you suspect a burst
• Call a professional plumber for safe inspection and repair

Preventing Frozen Pipes in the Future

Prevention is always easier than repair.

• Insulate exposed pipes
• Keep cabinet doors open during extreme cold
• Maintain indoor temperatures consistently
• Winterize outdoor plumbing before freezing weather

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If you cannot locate the frozen pipe, if multiple fixtures are affected, or if you see signs of a burst pipe, professional service is essential. Experienced plumbers can safely identify and resolve the issue before further damage occurs.

The post How to Tell If Your Pipes Are Frozen appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Sprinkler systems are designed for warm-weather operation, making them especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Many homeowners wait until the first freeze warning to think about protection, but effective prevention starts well before cold weather arrives.

Why Sprinkler Systems Freeze

Water left inside sprinkler lines expands when frozen. This expansion can crack pipes, break fittings, and damage valves. Because much of the system is buried, damage often goes unnoticed until spring when leaks appear.

Early Inspection Matters

Before temperatures drop, sprinkler systems should be inspected for leaks, broken heads, and faulty valves. Existing damage makes systems more susceptible to freeze-related failures.

Proper System Shutdown

Turning off the water supply alone is not enough. Any remaining water trapped in the lines can freeze and cause damage. A full system shutdown includes draining or blowing out the lines.

Professional Blowout Services

Compressed air is used to remove water from underground pipes safely. Improper blowouts can damage sprinkler components, making professional service the safest option.

Protecting Above-Ground Components

Backflow preventers, exposed pipes, and control valves require insulation or removal to prevent freezing. These components are often the first to fail during cold snaps.

Timing Is Critical

Waiting too long increases the risk of early freezes causing damage before winterization occurs. Scheduling service early ensures your system is protected before temperatures become unpredictable.

Consequences of Skipping Winterization

Frozen sprinkler damage can lead to cracked pipes, flooded yards, and expensive repairs in the spring. Early preparation avoids downtime and costly restoration work.

Final Thoughts

Preventing sprinkler freeze failures is about preparation, not reaction. Early inspections and professional winterization protect your irrigation system and ensure it is ready for use when warmer weather returns.

The post Preventing Sprinkler Freeze Damage Starts Before Cold Weather Arrives appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Michigan winters are known for extreme cold, sudden temperature drops, and long stretches below freezing. For homeowners and business owners in Rochester Hills and the greater Metro Detroit area, preventing frozen pipes is essential to avoid costly water damage and plumbing emergencies. Frozen pipes can burst without warning, quickly flooding basements, crawlspaces, and mechanical rooms. Outdoor plumbing and lawn irrigation systems are especially vulnerable.

Putman & Son’s Plumbing provides expert winterization and emergency service to help you protect your home before the cold sets in.

What Happens to Pipes During Freezing Temperatures

When temperatures fall below 32°F, the water in your plumbing system begins to expand. This expansion creates extreme pressure inside pipes, even if the pipe itself is made from copper, PEX, or PVC.

Areas most vulnerable include:

• Uninsulated indoor pipes near exterior walls
• Crawlspaces and basements with cold drafts
• Outdoor hose bibs and spigots
• Lawn irrigation systems and backflow preventers
• Detached garages or workshops with minimal heat

If the pressure exceeds what the pipe can handle, it can burst—even if only a small section is frozen.

Why Preventing Freezing Pipes Matters

Frozen pipes are more than an inconvenience. They can lead to:

• Significant water damage within minutes of bursting
• Mold growth from hidden leaks
• High repair and restoration costs
• Loss of water supply
• Damage to exterior landscaping systems

Proactive freeze prevention saves money and protects your property.

How to Protect Indoor Pipes from Freezing

Insulate Exposed Piping

Pipes in basements, attics, and garages should be wrapped with foam insulation sleeves or heat tape.

Seal Drafts

Cold air entering through gaps in walls, crawlspaces, or window frames can quickly freeze pipes nearby. Sealing these openings keeps temperatures stable.

Maintain Interior Heat

Even when away from home, keep your thermostat set above 55°F to ensure warm air reaches vulnerable areas.

Open Cabinet Doors

Allow warm air to circulate under kitchen or bathroom sinks when temperatures drop significantly.

Winterizing Outdoor Plumbing and Lawn Irrigation

Outdoor systems are the first to freeze and must be handled before the first hard frost.

Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hose Bibs

Remove all garden hoses, then drain and shut off exterior spigots from inside the home. Consider frost-proof fixtures if replacements are needed.

Winterize Irrigation Lines

Lawn irrigation systems require professional blow-out service, which removes all water from underground lines. Even a small amount of water left in the pipes can cause cracks or bursts.

Protect Your Backflow Preventer

Wrap the device with insulated coverings or install protective housing to reduce the risk of freezing.

Signs Your Pipes May Be Freezing

Pay attention to early warning signs such as:

• Reduced water flow from faucets
• Frost forming on pipes
• Strange odors coming from drains (a sign of blocked pipes)
• No water at all when fixtures are turned on
• Unusual banging or clanking noises

If you notice any of these, immediate action is required to prevent permanent damage.

What a Professional Freeze-Protection Service Includes

Putman & Son’s Plumbing performs comprehensive winterization services to protect your property. A typical visit includes:

• Inspection of vulnerable interior and exterior pipes
• Insulation of exposed plumbing
• Shutoff and draining of outdoor fixtures and irrigation connections
• Blow-out of lawn irrigation systems
• Testing of shutoff valves
• Inspection of crawlspaces, attics, and cold-air entry points
• Installation of heat tape where necessary

Our certified technicians ensure your system is prepared for even the harshest Michigan temperatures.

Why Choose Putman & Son’s Plumbing

Homeowners and business owners in the Rochester Hills and Metro Detroit area trust PNS for reliable winterization and emergency plumbing services. Benefits include:

• 24/7 emergency response
• Experienced, licensed, and insured technicians
• Up-to-date training on the latest freeze-protection methods
• Expertise in both residential and commercial plumbing systems
• Local knowledge of Michigan winter conditions

We help you prevent emergencies before they start.

Maintenance Tips You Can Do Yourself

Between professional visits, you can further protect your home with these simple steps:

• Let a small trickle of water run during extreme cold to keep pipes moving
• Drain outdoor plumbing systems every fall
• Keep garage doors closed to retain heat
• Check that crawlspace vents are closed in winter
• Add extra insulation around piping if temperatures drop suddenly

These small actions make a big difference in preventing frozen lines.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Freezing pipes can cause severe damage, but with the right preparation, you can avoid winter plumbing disasters. Putman & Son’s Plumbing provides expert protection for your home, including full winterization of outdoor plumbing and irrigation systems.

If you are in the Rochester Hills or Metro Detroit area and want to secure your plumbing for the winter, call (248) 652-0990 or request service online today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can outdoor pipes freeze even if temperatures only drop overnight?
Yes. A single night of freezing temperatures is enough to freeze exposed outdoor pipes or irrigation lines.

Do I need to winterize my irrigation system every year?
Absolutely. Any remaining water can freeze and crack underground lines.

Is heat tape safe for pipes?
When properly installed and maintained, heat tape is a safe and effective freeze-prevention method.

What should I do if my pipe is already frozen?
Turn off the water supply immediately and call Putman & Son’s Plumbing to safely thaw the pipe and prevent bursts.

The post How to Prevent Freezing Pipes: A Michigan Homeowner’s Guide by Putman & Son’s Plumbing appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Winter brings freezing temperatures, and with them comes the risk of frozen pipes. When water freezes, it expands, which puts immense pressure on your plumbing. This can lead to cracks or burst pipes, resulting in costly water damage and repairs. Fortunately, you can take proactive steps to prevent frozen pipes and protect your home this winter.

Insulate Your Pipes

One of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is by insulating them, especially those in unheated areas such as attics, basements, and garages. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to keep them warm. Even simple measures like wrapping pipes with towels or newspapers can provide some level of protection.

Keep a Steady Indoor Temperature

Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature helps keep your pipes from freezing. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you’re away from home. It’s also a good idea to open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

Let Faucets Drip

Allowing faucets to drip slightly during extreme cold helps keep water flowing, reducing the chance of freezing. This is especially important for pipes located along exterior walls or in colder parts of the house.

What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze

If you suspect a pipe has frozen, act quickly. Shut off the main water supply to prevent flooding if the pipe bursts. Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels to gently thaw the pipe. Never use an open flame, as it can damage the pipe and create a fire hazard.

The post How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.