When temperatures in Eden Prairie plunge below freezing—as they often do in the heart of a Minnesota winter—your home’s plumbing system faces one of its toughest challenges. Frozen pipes aren’t just inconvenient; they can lead to expensive repairs and serious water damage.
At BWS Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we know firsthand how quickly a cold snap can turn into a plumbing emergency. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help homeowners understand where the risks lie, how to prevent frozen pipes, and what to do if the worst happens.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Serious Problem
When water inside your pipes freezes, it expands—putting immense pressure on the pipe walls. This can cause cracks or bursts, often leading to flooding once the ice melts. Even a small crack can leak hundreds of gallons of water per day, damaging walls, floors, and belongings.
Homes in Eden Prairie are particularly at risk because of our subzero winters and extended cold spells, which can cause temperatures inside unheated spaces to drop rapidly. Knowing how to protect vulnerable areas of your plumbing can save you from major headaches later.
Common Risk Areas for Frozen Pipes
Not all pipes in your home are equally exposed. Some are more vulnerable to freezing, especially those located in:
- Unheated basements or crawl spaces
- Garages and exterior walls
- Attics or under sinks on exterior walls
- Outdoor spigots and hose bibs
If you’ve ever noticed a pipe that feels cold to the touch or runs along an outside wall, that’s a potential problem spot.
Proactive Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes
The best defense against frozen pipes is preparation. Here’s what Eden Prairie homeowners can do before and during winter to keep their plumbing safe:
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape on pipes in unheated areas. Pay special attention to basements, crawl spaces, and garages. Proper insulation helps maintain a steady temperature inside the pipes, even when outdoor air plunges below freezing.
2. Keep a Consistent Indoor Temperature
During cold snaps, avoid turning your thermostat down too low at night or while you’re away. Maintaining your home at a minimum of 55°F keeps water in your pipes from reaching freezing temperatures.
3. Open Cabinet Doors
Pipes under sinks—especially those on exterior walls—can benefit from extra airflow. Open cabinet doors to allow warm indoor air to circulate around them.
4. Let Faucets Drip Slightly
On the coldest nights, let a small trickle of water run from faucets connected to exposed pipes. The steady movement of water helps prevent freezing, even when temperatures fall into the single digits.
5. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses and Shut Off Exterior Faucets
Before freezing temperatures arrive, drain and store outdoor hoses, and shut off water to exterior spigots. If your home has frost-free hose bibs, this is still a smart precaution to avoid hidden water pockets that can freeze.
6. Seal Air Leaks
Cold drafts near plumbing can accelerate freezing. Use caulk or weatherstripping around windows, doors, and foundation cracks to keep cold air out.
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
Despite your best efforts, Minnesota’s deep winter cold can sometimes win. If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, a pipe may be frozen.
Here’s what to do next:
- Keep the faucet open. As the frozen area begins to melt, water will start to flow, helping speed up the thawing process.
- Apply gentle heat. Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels to thaw the pipe. Start near the faucet and work toward the frozen section.
- Never use open flames. Avoid propane torches or other open heat sources—they’re a fire hazard.
- Check other faucets. If one pipe freezes, others may be close behind.
- Call a professional plumber. If you can’t locate the frozen area or suspect a burst pipe, contact a licensed plumber immediately to prevent flooding.
At BWS Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, our team offers emergency plumbing services throughout Eden Prairie and the Twin Cities, so you’re never left stranded in the cold.
Protect Your Home Before the Freeze Hits
Eden Prairie’s winters are long and unforgiving, but a few proactive steps can go a long way in preventing frozen pipes and the costly repairs that follow. By insulating vulnerable areas, maintaining steady warmth, and taking quick action at the first sign of trouble, you can protect your home and peace of mind all season long.
If you’re unsure whether your plumbing system is ready for the cold, schedule a winter plumbing inspection with BWS Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. Our experienced technicians can identify risk areas, recommend preventive upgrades, and ensure your home is protected before the next freeze hits.
Stay warm, stay safe, and keep your pipes protected this Minnesota winter—with expert help from BWS.
