If you’ve lived through a New Hampshire winter, even just one, you already get it. You shovel, you scrape the windshield, you try not to eat ice in the driveway. And then, out of nowhere, the pipes freeze. Or worse, they freeze and burst. That’s the kind of winter surprise nobody asks for.
One minute everything in the house is quiet, and the next you hear water running in a place where there shouldn’t be water at all.
Why Pipes Freeze (and Why It Happens So Fast)
When the cold really sets in, water inside a pipe can freeze and push outward. It’s basically the same thing that happens when you forget a soda in the freezer — something’s eventually going to pop. Older homes or spots along exterior walls are usually the first to feel it.
A Few Easy Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Keep your heat at 55°F or higher, even if you’re out.
- Let a faucet drip a bit when the temps plunge.
- Leave cabinet doors open so warm air can reach the plumbing.
- Insulate pipes in basements, garages, and other chilly areas.
- Seal drafts around walls or the foundation.
If a Pipe Does Burst
- Shut off the water right away.
- Take pictures — the more, the better.
- Call your insurance company.
- Do whatever you safely can to keep the damage from spreading.
We’re Always Here to Help
Winter around here can be rough, but you don’t have to sort this stuff out alone. If you’re unsure what your policy covers or want someone to walk through it with you, just reach out. That’s what we’re here for.
