While Round Rock doesn't experience harsh winters like northern states, we do get occasional hard freezes that can wreak havoc on unprotected plumbing. Our emergency plumber team responds to dozens of burst pipe calls during cold snaps each year.
Why Frozen Pipes Are Dangerous
When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands by about 9%. This expansion can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to flooding and expensive water damage when the ice thaws. A single burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water into your home within hours.
Outdoor Preparation
Before temperatures drop below freezing:
- Disconnect and drain all garden hoses
- Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers (available at any hardware store)
- Know where your main water shutoff is located
- Shut off and drain irrigation systems
Indoor Precautions
During freeze warnings:
- Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to allow warm air circulation
- Let faucets drip slightly during freezing temperatures (moving water is less likely to freeze)
- Keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature, day and night (at least 55°F)
- If leaving town, never set the heat below 55°F
Insulating Vulnerable Pipes
Pipes in attics, crawl spaces, and garages are most vulnerable. Insulate these with:
- Foam pipe sleeves
- Heat tape (for extreme cold areas)
- Fiberglass insulation wraps
Our pipe replacement specialists can assess your home's vulnerable areas and recommend the best protection.
What to Do If Pipes Freeze
If you turn on a faucet and nothing comes out during a freeze:
- Keep the faucet open to release pressure as ice melts
- Apply gentle heat with a hair dryer (never an open flame)
- Start at the faucet and work toward the frozen section
- Call a professional if you can't locate or thaw the frozen section
Emergency Help
If a pipe bursts, shut off your main water supply immediately and call Round Rock Plumbing. We offer 24/7 emergency service throughout Round Rock, Pflugerville, Georgetown, and surrounding areas.
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