Winter in Lubbock may not be as harsh as in northern states, but our sudden temperature drops and overnight freezes can catch homeowners off guard. When temperatures plunge below freezing, unprotected pipes can freeze and burst, causing thousands of dollars in water damage. The good news is that with proper preparation, you can protect your home from winter plumbing disasters.
Why Lubbock Winters Are Deceptive
While we don't experience prolonged freezing temperatures, our sudden cold snaps are particularly dangerous. Pipes that aren't insulated for extreme cold can freeze quickly during overnight temperature drops, especially in January and February.
Understanding Frozen Pipe Risks
When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands with tremendous force—enough to burst even copper or steel pipes. The most vulnerable areas in Lubbock homes are pipes in unheated spaces like attics, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls. Outdoor faucets and irrigation systems are also at high risk.
The real damage often occurs when pipes thaw. As ice melts, water rushes through the burst section, flooding your home. Many homeowners don't discover the problem until they see water stains on ceilings or walls, or find standing water in their home.
Essential Winterization Steps
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Foam pipe insulation is inexpensive and highly effective. Focus on pipes in unheated areas: attics, crawl spaces, garages, and along exterior walls. Pay special attention to pipes near windows or vents where cold air can enter. For outdoor faucets, use insulated faucet covers available at any hardware store.
2. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Before the first freeze, disconnect all garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets. Water trapped in hoses or outdoor faucets can freeze and cause the connected pipes inside your walls to burst. Store hoses indoors for the winter.
3. Seal Cracks and Openings
Cold air can enter through surprisingly small openings. Seal cracks in walls, foundations, and around pipes where they enter your home. Check for gaps around windows and doors in rooms with plumbing. Even small drafts can cause pipes to freeze during extreme cold.
4. Know Where Your Shut-Off Valve Is
Every homeowner should know the location of their main water shut-off valve. In an emergency, shutting off the water quickly can prevent extensive damage. Test the valve now to ensure it works properly—valves can seize up from lack of use.
During a Freeze Warning
When Lubbock weather forecasts predict temperatures below 32°F, take these additional precautions:
- Let faucets drip: A slow drip from faucets served by exposed pipes prevents pressure buildup and keeps water moving, making freezing less likely.
- Open cabinet doors: Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks, especially those on exterior walls.
- Maintain consistent heat: Keep your thermostat at the same temperature day and night. The energy cost is minimal compared to the cost of burst pipe repairs.
- Keep garage doors closed: If you have water supply lines in your garage, keep the door closed to maintain warmer temperatures.
- Don't turn off heat when away: If you're leaving town during winter, keep your heat set to at least 55°F. The cost of heating an empty home is far less than repairing burst pipes.
What to Do If Pipes Freeze
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you likely have a frozen pipe. Act quickly:
1. Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and ice begins to melt, running water will help melt remaining ice.
2. Apply heat to the frozen section. Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in hot water. Never use an open flame, propane torch, or other high-heat source—this can damage pipes and create a fire hazard.
3. Check all faucets. If one pipe is frozen, others may be too. Open all faucets to check water flow throughout your home.
4. Call a professional. If you can't locate the frozen area, if the frozen pipe is inside a wall or ceiling, or if you can't thaw the pipe yourself, call Cotton City Plumbing immediately at (806) 441-4110.
Emergency Response for Burst Pipes
If a pipe bursts, take immediate action to minimize damage:
1. Shut off the main water valve immediately. This stops water flow and prevents further flooding.
2. Turn off electricity if water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or your electrical panel. Safety first.
3. Call Cotton City Plumbing for same-day emergency service. We'll repair the burst pipe and help you assess the damage.
4. Document the damage with photos for insurance purposes before cleaning up.
Professional Winterization Services
For complete peace of mind, Cotton City Plumbing offers professional winterization services for Lubbock homeowners. We'll inspect your plumbing system, identify vulnerable areas, install insulation where needed, and ensure your home is protected from winter weather.
Our winterization service is especially valuable for vacation homes, rental properties, or if you're planning to be away during winter months. We can also install freeze alarms that alert you if temperatures drop dangerously low in your home.
Don't Wait for a Freeze
The best time to winterize your plumbing is before the first freeze warning. Once temperatures drop, it's too late to prevent damage. Take action now to protect your home and avoid the stress and expense of burst pipe repairs.
Cotton City Plumbing has been helping Lubbock homeowners protect their homes from winter plumbing disasters for years. Whether you need professional winterization, emergency repairs, or advice on protecting your pipes, we're here to help.
Call (806) 441-4110 today to schedule winterization service or for emergency assistance.