How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Southern Oregon

While Southern Oregon generally enjoys mild winters, we do experience freezing temperatures, especially in the Rogue Valley. Here is how to protect your pipes.

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Problem

When water freezes, it expands. In a pipe, this expansion creates enormous pressure that can split the pipe open. The damage happens when ice melts and water starts spraying.

A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water before you notice. The water damage, mold, and repairs can cost thousands of dollars.

Pipes Most at Risk

• Pipes in exterior walls
• Pipes in unheated spaces (crawl spaces, garages, attics)
• Outdoor faucets and hose bibs
• Pipes in cabinets against exterior walls

Prevention Steps

Before Cold Weather Arrives

1. **Disconnect garden hoses:** Water left in hoses can freeze back into the pipe 2. **Shut off outdoor faucet supply:** Close the interior shutoff valve and open the outdoor faucet to drain 3. **Insulate exposed pipes:** Foam pipe insulation is cheap and easy to install 4. **Seal air leaks:** Cold air blowing on pipes increases freeze risk

When Freezing Temps Are Forecast

1. **Let faucets drip:** Running water is harder to freeze. A slow drip from faucets served by at-risk pipes can prevent freezing 2. **Open cabinet doors:** Let warm air reach pipes under sinks on exterior walls 3. **Keep the heat on:** Do not let indoor temps drop below 55°F, even when away 4. **Know your main shutoff:** If a pipe does burst, you need to stop the water fast

What to Do If Pipes Freeze

If you turn on a faucet and nothing comes out:

1. **Keep the faucet open:** As ice melts, water needs somewhere to go 2. **Apply gentle heat:** Use a hair dryer, heat lamp, or towels soaked in hot water. Never use open flame 3. **Start near the faucet:** Work backward toward the coldest section 4. **Check for cracks:** Inspect visible pipes for damage before water starts flowing

Call Us If:

• You cannot locate the frozen section
• Pipes are not accessible (inside walls)
• You see cracks or bulging in the pipe
• Water is not flowing after 30 minutes of thawing
• You want help preventing future freezes

Frozen pipe calls spike every time Southern Oregon gets an extended freeze. A little prevention now saves a lot of headache later.