How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter – A Guide for Blount County Homeowners

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Winter in Blount County brings beautiful scenery, but it also brings freezing temperatures that can wreak havoc on your plumbing. Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costly issues homeowners face during cold snaps. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands, creating immense pressure that can cause cracks or complete bursts. The result is often water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs.

The good news is that frozen pipes are largely preventable. With a few proactive steps, you can protect your home and avoid the stress of an emergency plumbing call during the coldest months of the year.

Start by insulating exposed pipes. Pipes located in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages are especially vulnerable. Pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape can provide an extra layer of protection. Pay close attention to pipes along exterior walls, as they are most susceptible to freezing.

Next, maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home. During freezing weather, keep your thermostat set to the same temperature day and night. While it may be tempting to lower the heat while you’re asleep or away, a sudden drop in temperature can be enough to freeze pipes. Opening cabinet doors under sinks allows warm air to circulate around plumbing lines, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms.

Seal any drafts or cracks near pipes. Cold air sneaking in through gaps around windows, doors, or foundation walls can chill pipes quickly. A simple application of caulk or spray foam insulation can make a significant difference.

If you plan to be away from home during winter, take extra precautions. Set your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit, and consider shutting off the main water supply and draining your pipes before you leave. This small step can prevent catastrophic damage if a freeze occurs while you’re away.

Despite your best efforts, frozen pipes can still happen. If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Keep the faucet open and apply gentle heat to the affected section using a hairdryer or space heater. Never use an open flame. If you’re unable to locate the freeze or the pipe has already burst, shut off your main water supply immediately and call a professional.

At Choice One Plumbing, we’ve helped countless Maryville, Alcoa, and Knoxville homeowners recover from frozen pipes and prevent future issues. Our team is available for same-day service when emergencies arise, and we’re happy to provide winter preparation inspections to give you peace of mind. Being family-owned and located on East Broadway means we’re here for our neighbors when it matters most.