How Can Homeowners Prevent Frozen Pipes During Louisiana Cold Snaps?

Frozen pipes aren’t just inconvenient. They can lead to water damage, costly repairs, and emergency plumbing calls if not addressed quickly. Knowing how to protect your plumbing system ahead of time can save you stress and money when temperatures drop.

Why Do Pipes Freeze in Warm-Climate Homes?

Pipes freeze in warm-climate homes because plumbing systems in the South are often not designed for prolonged cold weather, leaving exposed or poorly insulated pipes vulnerable during sudden temperature drops.

Pipes are more likely to freeze when:

• Temperatures drop below 32°F for several hours

• Plumbing runs through unheated or exposed areas

• Homes are built without cold-weather insulation

• Outdoor faucets and irrigation lines aren’t winterized

Because freezes are less common in the South, many plumbing systems simply aren’t designed for extended cold, making emergency plumber calls more likely when cold fronts move in unexpectedly.

Which Pipes Are Most at Risk of Freezing?

The pipes most at risk of freezing are those exposed to cold air or located in unheated areas of the home, especially during overnight freezes.

Common high-risk areas include:

• Outdoor hose bibs and spigots

• Pipes under kitchen and bathroom sinks

• Plumbing in garages, crawl spaces, or attics

• Exterior walls with minimal insulation

• Sewer and drain lines with slow-moving water

If you’ve experienced slow draining sinks, low water pressure, or have had previous pipe repairs, your plumbing system may already be at higher risk.

How Can You Prevent Pipes From Freezing?

You can prevent pipes from freezing by following a step-by-step approach that includes insulating exposed pipes, keeping water moving, protecting outdoor plumbing, and maintaining steady indoor temperatures before freezing weather arrives.

💡 Pro Tip from Ben: Turning off your water supply alone isn’t enough. Any water left inside the pipes can still freeze and cause them to burst. After shutting off the water, make sure the lines are fully drained. In some cases, a wet/dry vacuum or air compressor connected to an outdoor hose bib can help remove trapped water and reduce freeze risk.

What Should You Do If Your Pipes Freeze?

If your pipes freeze, acting quickly can help limit damage and prevent pipes from bursting once they thaw.

If you suspect frozen pipes:

• Turn on faucets to check water flow

• Shut off your main water supply if pressure drops suddenly

• Avoid using open flames or extreme heat to thaw pipes

Frozen pipes can burst without warning once they begin to thaw, which is why calling a licensed plumber early can prevent major water damage.

When Should You Call an Emergency Plumber?

You should call an emergency plumber if you notice signs of frozen or burst pipes that could lead to water damage.

Contact a professional plumber if you experience:

• No water or extremely low water pressure

• Visible frost on pipes

• Cracked or leaking pipes

• Water damage around walls or ceilings

Acadiana Rooter Plumbing provides emergency plumbing services, drain repair, and pipe inspections to quickly resolve freezing-related issues before they escalate.

How Does Preventive Plumbing Maintenance Help Avoid Frozen Pipes?

Preventive plumbing maintenance and routine plumbing inspections helps identify weaknesses in your plumbing system before winter weather arrives.

Routine inspections can uncover:

• Poor insulation

• Aging or damaged pipes

• Slow drains or sewer line issues

• Hidden leaks that worsen in cold weather

Preventive care reduces the likelihood of needing emergency plumber services during freezing temperatures.

How Can You Protect Your Plumbing Before the Next Cold Snap?

You can protect your plumbing before the next cold snap by taking proactive steps now rather than waiting for temperatures to drop.

Frozen pipes may be uncommon in Louisiana, but they’re far from impossible. Preparing your plumbing system ahead of time helps avoid costly repairs and keeps your home protected year-round.

If you’re unsure whether your pipes are properly protected, Acadiana Rooter Plumbings’s licensed plumbers can assess your system and recommend solutions tailored to South Louisiana homes.

Frequently Asked Questions

At Acadiana Rooter Plumbing, we take pride in providing reliable, honest, and professional plumbing services across Lafayette, Broussard, Youngsville, and the surrounding Acadiana area. From drain cleaning and pipe repair to water heater installation and backflow testing, our licensed plumbers handle every job with precision and care. As a veteran-owned company, we’re committed to serving our community with integrity and craftsmanship you can trust.