Skip to main content
In this article
Michigan winters are hard on plumbing. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands and can crack or burst the line, leading to expensive water damage. The good news: a few simple steps go a long way.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas — basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls — are most at risk. Foam pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install.
Let Faucets Drip on Cold Nights
When temperatures drop below freezing, allowing a faucet to drip slightly keeps water moving and relieves pressure that can build up if a line starts to freeze.
Keep Your Heat On
Even when you’re away, keep your thermostat set no lower than 55°F. Open cabinet doors under sinks so warm air can reach the pipes.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Before the first freeze, disconnect garden hoses and shut off and drain outdoor spigots.
What If a Pipe Is Already Frozen?
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, leave the faucet open and apply gentle heat to the frozen section — never an open flame. If you can’t locate or thaw it, call a licensed plumber before it bursts.
Serving Roseville and communities across Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne County, we help homeowners prevent and repair frozen-pipe damage all winter long.
