When temperatures drop below freezing, plumbing systems in both homes and businesses face serious risks. Frozen pipes can burst, flooding interiors, damaging property, and causing expensive repairs. Whether you own a commercial facility or a residential home, preparation is the key to avoiding costly winter plumbing disasters.
At Aedile Plumbing, we help Houston-area property owners take proactive steps to prevent frozen pipes and protect their plumbing systems before the coldest months arrive.
Why Pipes Freeze — and What Happens When They Do
Pipes freeze when the water inside them is exposed to temperatures below 32°F (0°C). The water expands as it turns to ice, creating pressure that can cause even durable pipes to burst.
Residential properties often see frozen pipes in exterior walls, basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Commercial buildings face the same risks in less-used restrooms, maintenance areas, and unheated mechanical rooms. Once a pipe bursts, thousands of gallons of water can flood a space within minutes.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Residential Properties
Homeowners can take several simple but effective steps to keep their pipes safe through the winter.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas—like garages, attics, and crawl spaces—are the most vulnerable. Wrapping them with foam pipe insulation helps retain heat and reduce the chance of freezing.
2. Keep a Steady Temperature
Set your thermostat to a consistent temperature, even when away from home. Keeping the heat above 55°F prevents the air and walls around pipes from dropping too low.
3. Let Faucets Drip
When temperatures are expected to drop, allowing a slow trickle of water to flow through faucets can relieve pressure inside pipes and keep water moving—reducing the risk of freezing.
4. Open Cabinet Doors
Open cabinets under sinks in bathrooms and kitchens to let warm air circulate around exposed plumbing.
5. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Always remove and drain garden hoses. Shut off the water supply to exterior spigots and use insulated faucet covers to protect them.
Commercial Plumbing Tips for Cold Weather
Businesses and commercial facilities have unique plumbing needs. Large-scale water systems, sprinkler lines, and mechanical rooms are more complex—and often harder to access. Here are key ways to prevent frozen pipes in commercial settings:
1. Inspect and Insulate Critical Lines
Have a professional plumbing inspection before freezing temperatures arrive. Aedile Plumbing can identify exposed or high-risk lines and install the proper insulation or heat tracing systems to keep them warm.
2. Maintain Indoor Temperatures
Keep thermostats at a safe, steady level throughout the building, including storage and maintenance areas that might not see regular use.
3. Monitor Remote Areas
Commercial buildings often have plumbing that runs through loading docks, attics, or exterior walls. Install temperature sensors or smart monitors to alert you if temperatures drop dangerously low.
4. Shut Down Unused Systems
If sections of your building are closed for the season, properly drain and shut down unused water lines to prevent freezing in dormant pipes.
Recognizing Signs of Frozen Pipes
Catching a frozen pipe early can mean the difference between a simple thaw and a major flood. Look out for these warning signs:
- Little or no water coming from faucets
- Frost on the outside of exposed pipes
- Gurgling noises when running water
- Strange odors coming from drains
If you notice any of these, shut off your main water valve immediately and call Aedile Plumbing for emergency service.
What to Do if a Pipe Bursts
If the worst happens and a pipe bursts, quick action can minimize damage.
- Turn off the main water supply to stop flooding.
- Shut off electricity to affected areas for safety.
- Call a professional plumber immediately.
- Start cleanup quickly to prevent mold or structural damage.
Our emergency plumbing team is available 24/7 to handle urgent situations and help get your home or business back to normal fast.
Why Choose Aedile Plumbing This Winter
Whether you’re managing a commercial property or maintaining your home, Aedile Plumbing provides expert preventive maintenance, pipe insulation, and emergency repair services across the Greater Houston area.
We understand local weather patterns, building structures, and plumbing systems—so you get reliable, long-term solutions designed for your property’s needs.
Protect your plumbing before the next cold snap hits. Contact Aedile Plumbing today to schedule a winter plumbing inspection and ensure your systems are ready for freezing temperatures.
Final Thoughts
Winter plumbing problems don’t discriminate between homes and businesses—frozen pipes can strike anywhere. The good news is that with preparation and help from the professionals at Aedile Plumbing, you can prevent frozen pipes, protect your property, and enjoy peace of mind all season long.
