When winter temperatures drop, one of the biggest concerns for homeowners is the possibility of frozen pipes. A failing or broken furnace can create the perfect conditions for pipes to freeze, potentially leading to costly repairs from burst pipes and water damage. Understanding how to prevent this disaster is crucial for protecting your home and keeping your plumbing system intact during frigid weather.
If your furnace fails unexpectedly, you need to act quickly to keep your pipes from freezing. Here are the best steps to take to protect your home until you can get your heating system repaired.
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
Pipes freeze when the temperature inside your home drops below 32°F (0°C) for an extended period. Water expands as it freezes, putting immense pressure on pipes, which can cause them to crack or burst. This is especially common in pipes located in:
- Uninsulated or exterior walls
- Basements, attics, and crawl spaces
- Garages or unheated areas of the home
Since your furnace is the primary source of heat, a breakdown during extreme cold significantly increases the risk of frozen pipes. However, there are ways to prevent this issue before it turns into a costly repair.
Immediate Steps to Prevent Freezing Pipes When the Furnace Fails
If your furnace stops working, follow these steps immediately to prevent your pipes from freezing:
1. Keep the Faucets Dripping
Running water is much less likely to freeze, even in freezing conditions. Turn on your faucets to a slow, steady drip—especially those connected to pipes along exterior walls. This relieves pressure in the pipes, preventing them from bursting even if they do start to freeze.
2. Open Cabinet Doors
Many household pipes run inside cabinets under sinks in the kitchen and bathroom. To help warm air circulate around these pipes, open the cabinet doors. If you have a space heater, placing it near open cabinets (at a safe distance) can provide additional warmth to these vulnerable pipes.
3. Close Garage and Exterior Doors
If your home has plumbing in or near the garage, keep the garage door closed to retain as much warmth as possible. The same goes for any exterior doors or openings where cold air can enter.
4. Use Towels and Blankets for Insulation
If you know where the most vulnerable pipes are, wrap them in towels, blankets, or even newspaper for extra insulation. This is a quick, temporary fix to slow down heat loss and reduce the risk of freezing.
5. Use a Space Heater (If Available and Safe to Use)
A space heater can be a lifesaver in preventing frozen pipes. Place one in a central location to help maintain a warmer indoor temperature. However, be sure to follow safety precautions, such as keeping it away from flammable materials and never leaving it unattended.
6. Seal Drafts and Cracks
Use towels, blankets, or weatherstripping to block cold air from coming in through doors, windows, and other drafty areas. Even a small draft can lower indoor temperatures significantly when the furnace isn’t working.
7. Use a Hair Dryer or Heating Pad for Cold Pipes
If you suspect a pipe is starting to freeze, you can carefully warm it up using a hair dryer or heating pad. Start at the faucet end of the pipe and slowly work your way back to thaw the ice gradually. Never use an open flame, as this can damage the pipes and create a fire hazard.
Long-Term Strategies to Prevent Frozen Pipes
To avoid future emergencies, take proactive measures to prevent pipes from freezing even if your furnace goes out:
1. Insulate Your Pipes
Pipe insulation is one of the best ways to prevent freezing. Foam pipe sleeves, heat tape, and even old blankets can provide extra protection, especially for pipes in unheated areas.
2. Keep the Thermostat at a Consistent Temperature
Setting your thermostat at a steady temperature (preferably above 55°F) helps maintain warmth in your home. Even if you’re away, avoid lowering the temperature too much to reduce the risk of freezing pipes.
3. Install a Backup Heat Source
Having an alternative heat source, such as a fireplace, wood stove, or portable propane heater, can help keep your home warm in case of a furnace failure. Just be sure to follow safety guidelines when using these heating methods.
4. Install a Smart Thermostat or Temperature Monitor
Smart thermostats and temperature monitors can send alerts to your phone if the indoor temperature drops too low. This allows you to take action before pipes freeze.
5. Schedule Regular Furnace Maintenance
Preventative furnace maintenance can help reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Schedule an annual inspection to ensure your heating system is in top condition.
6. Consider a Whole-House Generator
If your area experiences frequent power outages in winter, investing in a whole-house generator can provide backup power for your furnace and keep your home warm.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
Despite your best efforts, if a pipe does freeze, act quickly to minimize damage:
- Shut off the main water supply – This prevents flooding if the pipe bursts.
- Try to thaw the pipe safely – Use a hair dryer, space heater, or warm towels. Never use an open flame.
- Call a plumber if necessary – If you’re unable to thaw the pipe or if it bursts, contact a professional immediately.
A furnace failure during freezing temperatures can quickly turn into a plumbing nightmare if you’re not prepared. However, by taking quick action and implementing preventative measures, you can minimize the risk of frozen pipes and costly water damage. Keeping your pipes insulated, allowing faucets to drip, and using alternative heat sources can all help protect your home until your furnace is repaired.
Stay prepared, and don’t wait for an emergency to take precautions—your pipes (and your wallet) will thank you!