Winter in the NYC metro area brings freezing temperatures that can spell disaster for your plumbing. Frozen pipes are not just inconvenient—they can lead to costly repairs, water damage, and even flooding. Don’t let the cold catch you unprepared. Act now to protect your home and avoid a plumbing emergency.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Big Problem in NYC
When water freezes inside your pipes, it expands, increasing pressure and risking a burst pipe. This can happen in just a few hours of freezing temperatures, especially in older NYC homes with less insulation. A burst pipe isn’t just a hassle; it can cause extensive damage, ruining walls, flooring, and personal belongings. The repair costs and cleanup can easily escalate into thousands of dollars.
With over 100 years of experience, Team Harris has seen it all when it comes to winter plumbing emergencies. Our team knows how to handle these issues quickly and effectively, saving you time, money, and stress.
Here’s what you need to know to prevent this winter nightmare:
Keep Your Thermostat at 65°F or Higher
Setting your thermostat to at least 65°F—even if you’re leaving home—is essential to prevent pipes from freezing. Lower temperatures can put your plumbing at risk, especially in areas like basements, attics, or near exterior walls where the cold hits hardest.
Open Cabinet Doors to Protect Pipes
Allow warm air to circulate around your pipes by opening vanity and cabinet doors. This small step can make a big difference in preventing pipes in enclosed spaces from freezing solid.
Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
Exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, and garages, are highly susceptible to freezing. Insulate them with foam pipe covers or heat tape to add an extra layer of protection. Team Harris can assess your plumbing and recommend the best insulation solutions tailored to your home.
Seal Drafts to Keep the Cold Out
Cold air seeping through cracks or gaps near pipes can lead to freezing. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal any openings around pipe entry points. Drafts near plumbing fixtures can significantly increase the risk of frozen pipes.
Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold
Keeping a small trickle of water flowing through your faucets can relieve pressure in your pipes and reduce the risk of freezing. This simple action can save you from dealing with a burst pipe when temperatures plummet.
Schedule a Plumbing Checkup
Before temperatures drop even further, have your plumbing inspected by a licensed master plumber. Team Harris specializes in identifying and addressing winter plumbing risks. Our expert team ensures your home is ready to withstand NYC’s harsh winter conditions. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your checkup today.
Don’t Wait—Take Action Now
Frozen pipes can escalate from a minor inconvenience to a full-blown emergency in hours. If you’re traveling for the holidays or spending extended time away from home, it’s even more critical to prepare your plumbing. A burst pipe doesn’t wait for a convenient time to strike—it’s a crisis that requires immediate attention.
By acting now, you can avoid unnecessary stress and expenses. With decades of experience handling NYC’s toughest plumbing emergencies, Team Harris is ready to help you protect your home.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
- Turn off the water supply immediately to minimize damage.
- Use a hair dryer or space heater to warm the frozen area. Avoid open flames, as they can create additional hazards.
- Call a licensed plumber if you can’t restore water flow or suspect pipe damage. The faster you act, the less damage your home will sustain.
Call Team Harris Today
Don’t let freezing temperatures put your home at risk. Team Harris offers expert plumbing services to protect your home this winter. Whether you need an inspection, insulation, or emergency repairs, our team is here to help.
Contact us now for a free estimate and learn about our financing options to make repairs more manageable. With Team Harris, you’re in experienced hands—we’ll keep your plumbing safe and secure through the toughest winter weather. Call us today and avoid a plumbing disaster!
