Wisconsin winters can be brutal, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. One of the most common plumbing emergencies during winter is frozen pipes, which can lead to bursting and extensive water damage. Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner in Watertown, Beaver Dam, or Oconomowoc, taking proactive steps can save you from costly repairs. Here’s how to prevent your pipes from freezing this winter.
Pipes freeze when temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C), causing the water inside them to expand. If the pressure inside the pipes builds up too much, they can burst, leading to leaks and major property damage.
Pipes located in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces are at the highest risk of freezing. To protect them:
✅ Wrap pipes with foam insulation
✅ Use heat tape for extra warmth
✅ Install pipe sleeves for added protection
Insulating your pipes is an easy and affordable way to prevent freezing.
Letting your faucets drip slightly during extreme cold can keep water flowing, preventing pipes from freezing. This is especially important for:
A small water drip can save you from a costly plumbing disaster.
Cold air seeping into your home can freeze nearby pipes. Check for drafts near:
Use caulk or insulation to seal any openings that let in cold air.
Pipes under kitchen and bathroom sinks can freeze if warm air doesn’t reach them. Leave cabinet doors open to allow warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes.
Many homeowners lower their thermostat at night to save energy, but drastic temperature drops can cause pipes to freeze. To prevent this:
✅ Keep your thermostat above 55°F
✅ Set it to a consistent temperature day and night
A small increase in heating costs is much cheaper than dealing with burst pipes.
Before winter hits, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses to prevent ice buildup. If left connected, water can freeze inside the hose and extend into the outdoor faucet and pipes, causing them to burst.
Also, shut off and drain outdoor water lines before freezing temperatures arrive.
A smart leak detection system can alert you to unusual water usage, helping you catch leaks or frozen pipes before they burst. Some models even shut off water automatically to prevent flooding.
If you suspect a frozen pipe:
🔹 Turn off the main water supply to prevent bursting
🔹 Open faucets to relieve pressure
🔹 Use a hairdryer or heating pad to thaw pipes slowly
🔹 Never use an open flame to heat pipes
If your pipes are frozen and you’re unable to thaw them, call a professional plumber immediately to avoid serious damage.
Frozen pipes can cause thousands of dollars in damage if not addressed quickly. Whether you need preventative insulation, emergency repairs, or winterization services, Brisc Plumbing is here to help.
You agree to receive informational messages (appointment reminders, account notifications, etc.) from Brisc Plumbing. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. For help, reply HELP or email us at ccastro@briscwatertown.com. You can opt out at any time by replying STOP.
No mobile information will be shared with any third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes. All other categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent, this information will not be shared with or obtained by any third parties.
If you wish to be removed from receiving future communications, you can opt out at any time by texting STOP or contacting us at ccastro@briscwatertown.com.