Winter in Denver, Colorado, brings freezing temperatures that can wreak havoc on your plumbing. Frozen pipes are not just an inconvenience—they can burst and cause costly water damage to your home. The good news? With a few preventative steps, you can keep your pipes safe and sound all winter long.

Here’s how to prevent frozen pipes in Denver’s cold climate and avoid an expensive plumbing disaster.

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Why Do Pipes Freeze in Denver?

Denver’s winters often dip below freezing, creating the perfect conditions for frozen pipes. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, leading to increased pressure that can cause the pipe to crack or burst. Outdoor and uninsulated pipes are especially vulnerable.

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10 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Insulate Your Pipes

Protecting your pipes with insulation is one of the best ways to prevent freezing. Foam pipe insulation sleeves are affordable and effective, especially for pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, or crawl spaces.

Tip: Pay extra attention to pipes near exterior walls or windows.

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2. Let Faucets Drip

Running water doesn’t freeze as easily. During extreme cold snaps, let your faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing. Even a slow trickle can prevent ice from forming inside pipes.

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3. Seal Drafts

Cold air sneaking into your home can chill your pipes. Seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and exterior walls to block drafts. Use weather stripping, caulk, or spray foam insulation for a quick fix.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check for drafts near your water pipes.

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4. Open Cabinet Doors

Kitchen and bathroom sinks often have pipes running along exterior walls. Opening cabinet doors lets warm air from your home circulate around these pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.

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5. Keep Your Thermostat Consistent

Avoid letting your home temperature drop too low, even at night. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F to ensure your pipes stay warm, especially if you’re away.

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6. Drain Outdoor Water Lines

Outdoor pipes, such as garden hoses and sprinkler systems, are highly susceptible to freezing. Disconnect and drain all hoses, and shut off water to outdoor faucets if possible.

Bonus Tip: Use faucet covers for extra protection.

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7. Install Heat Tape

Heat tape or heat cables can provide extra warmth to pipes in areas prone to freezing. These tools are especially useful for pipes in unheated spaces like attics or crawl spaces.

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8. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is

If a pipe does freeze or burst, you’ll need to act quickly to minimize damage. Locate your main water shut-off valve and make sure everyone in your household knows how to use it.

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9. Winterize Your Home Before Traveling

If you’re leaving Denver for an extended period during the winter, take precautions to prevent frozen pipes:

Drain your pipes or set your thermostat to at least 55°F.

Ask a neighbor to check on your home.

Shut off the water supply if you’ll be gone for a long time.

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10. Schedule a Plumbing Inspection

Preventative maintenance goes a long way. A professional plumber can identify vulnerable pipes, recommend upgrades, and ensure your plumbing is ready for Denver’s winter weather.

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What to Do if Your Pipes Freeze

If you suspect a frozen pipe, act quickly to prevent it from bursting:

1. Turn off your water supply immediately.

2. Use a hairdryer or space heater to gently thaw the frozen area. Never use an open flame!

3. Call a licensed plumber for assistance if needed.

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Why Preventing Frozen Pipes Matters

Save Money: Burst pipes can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs and water damage.

Conserve Water: A single burst pipe can waste hundreds of gallons of water.

Reduce Stress: Taking preventative steps now means fewer headaches later.

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Conclusion

Denver’s freezing winters don’t have to spell disaster for your plumbing. By insulating pipes, sealing drafts, and staying proactive, you can prevent frozen pipes and enjoy a worry-free winter.

If you’re concerned about your pipes or need professional winterization services, contact us today! We’re Denver’s trusted plumbing experts, here to help keep your home safe and dry.

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Meta Description: Prevent frozen pipes in Denver this winter with these expert plumbing tips. Learn how to insulate pipes, seal drafts, and protect your home from costly water damage.

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