When winter settles into Oklahoma, homeowners face a unique challenge: unpredictable freeze-thaw cycles that can wreak havoc on plumbing systems. One day it’s 60 degrees, the next night it’s below freezing. This fluctuation puts tremendous pressure on pipes, increasing the risk of cracks, leaks, and full-blown bursts. As licensed Oklahoma plumbers, Service Pro Plumbing regularly responds to winter emergencies that could have been prevented with a few proactive steps.
Below are the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes in Oklahoma, keep your home safe, and avoid costly repairs.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
One of the most powerful ways to protect your pipes is proper insulation. Pipes in unheated or vulnerable areas – attics, crawl spaces, garages, basements, and exterior walls are the first to freeze.
Best Insulation Materials
- Foam pipe sleeves: Affordable, easy to install, and excellent for long, straight runs of pipe.
- Fiberglass wrap: Ideal for extremely cold areas or irregular pipe shapes.
- Heat tape or heating cables: Great for pipes with a history of freezing; just be sure to follow manufacturer instructions for safety or have them professionally installed.
At Service Pro Plumbing, we recommend checking your insulation every year before temperatures drop. A few minutes of prep now can save you thousands in repairs later.
2. Drip Faucets During Cold Snaps
When Oklahoma experiences extended freezes -especially temps below 28°F overnight – allowing a small drip can prevent pressure buildup inside the pipes.
How to Drip Correctly
- Choose the faucet farthest from where the water enters your home.
- A very small, but continuous stream is needed. An occasional drip is not always enough.
- Keep both hot and cold taps slightly open. If it’s a single handle faucet, try to keep it in the center so that you get water from both sides.
3. Seal Gaps and Cracks Around Your Home
Cold air infiltration is one of the most overlooked contributors to frozen pipes. Even a small draft can cause pipes behind walls to dip below freezing.
Where to Check
- Around dryer vents
- At cable or plumbing penetrations
- Along the rim joist in basements and crawl spaces
- Around windows or exterior doors
Use caulk, expanding foam, or weatherstripping to seal these areas and protect your interior plumbing from freezing temperatures.
4. Shut Off Outdoor Water Lines
Outdoor fixtures are extremely vulnerable in winter. Before the first freeze, take the following steps to protect them:
For Hose Bibs
- Disconnect and store all hoses.
- Use an interior shut-off valve (if you have one) to cut the water supply.
- Insulate exterior spigots with foam covers.
For Sprinkler Systems
- Turn off the water supply.
- Have the system blown out professionally, if possible.
- Insulate backflow preventers and exposed piping.
These steps alone prevent many of the winter emergency calls we receive at Service Pro Plumbing.
5. What to Do if a Pipe Freezes
Even with the best preparation, Oklahoma’s harsh temperature swings can still freeze pipes. Here’s what to do:
Signs Your Pipe Is Frozen
- No water flow from a faucet
- Frost visible on exposed pipe
- Gurgling or unusual noises
- Damp drywall or unexplained moisture
Safe Thawing Methods
- Use a hair dryer or heat gun on low.
- Apply warm towels to the affected area.
- Place a space heater nearby (keep away from flammables).
- NEVER use open flames or torches, this is extremely dangerous and can cause fires.
If the pipe has already burst, or if you’re unsure where the freeze is, call Service Pro Plumbing immediately. We can safely diagnose the issue, prevent further damage and restore water to your home.
Final Thoughts
Oklahoma winters may be unpredictable, but your plumbing doesn’t have to be. With proper pipe insulation, sealing, and preventative maintenance, you can dramatically reduce the risk of frozen pipes. When in doubt, trust Service Pro Plumbing, your reliable local experts, to help you stay prepared and protected.
If you want a winter plumbing inspection or need help with a frozen pipe, contact Service Pro Plumbing today – we’re here to keep your home safe all winter long.
