Common Winter Plumbing Myths DEBUNKED

As winter creeps in, most homeowners double-check that their heating systems are in top condition. But what about your plumbing? Frozen pipes and other winter-related plumbing problems are far more common than many realize, making routine maintenance essential during the colder months.

Below, we have separated fact from fiction and debunked some common winter plumbing myths.

MYTH: You can thaw your pipes with a flame

FACT: Using an open flame to thaw frozen pipes is incredibly dangerous. Rapid expansion can cause a fire or even burst your pipes. Instead, use a hairdryer or heating pad to warm the pipe slowly. It’s important to thaw the pipes from the tap end and work your way back, allowing the melted water to escape through the tap and reducing any pressure buildup in the pipe. If the pipe has already cracked, it is best to call our expert plumbers, who can address this situation promptly.

MYTH: Pipes only freeze if the heat is off

FACT: Your pipes can still freeze even if your heating system runs efficiently. Factors like improper insulation, drafts and significant temperature drops can affect how well your heating system safeguards them. A best practice during the colder months is to insulate your pipes and reduce exposure to cold air.

MYTH: Running hot water will prevent your pipes from freezing

FACT: Many believe that running hot water through pipes can prevent them from freezing during cold weather. While the concept might seem logical, it is neither a long-term nor guaranteed solution. Running hot water may temporarily help, but it fails to address the root cause – exposure to freezing temperatures— and can result in wasted water and higher energy costs without ensuring protection.

To avoid that, focus on more effective methods like insulating pipes and maintaining consistent heat throughout your home.

MYTH: A dripping tap will not freeze your pipes

FACT: Dripping water can help prevent pipes from freezing during cold weather by keeping water moving, which makes it harder to freeze. However, it’s not a foolproof solution, especially during prolonged or extreme freezes. To better safeguard your pipes, combine dripping water with other protective measures, like opening cabinets to allow warm air to circulate and wrapping exposed pipes with heat tape.

MYTH: Winter plumbing problems don’t really occur

FACT: As winter arrives, many plumbing problems, including frozen pipes, unexpected pipe bursts and frequent water heater issues, tend to emerge. To avoid potentially costly repairs and inconvenience, it's a good idea to prepare your plumbing ahead of time. Taking proactive measures can help maintain well-functioning plumbing in the long run. Insulating your pipes and scheduling a professional inspection helps keep your plumbing running smoothly all season.

Schedule a whole-home plumbing inspection with Atlas Butler, and our certified techs will identify potential vulnerabilities in your system. This will give you peace of mind and ensure your home is prepared to handle the winter chill.

Call us at 1-800-FURNACE or visit atlasbutler.com to schedule your inspection today. If you do experience frozen pipes this winter, Atlas Butler offers emergency frozen pipe services to address any damage and get your water flowing again.