Last Updated: January 21, 2026
How to Prevent & Thaw Frozen Pipes During an Atlanta Winter Storm
Atlanta winter weather can change fast. When temperatures stay below freezing for hours, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and lead to a burst pipe—often followed by flooding and expensive repairs.
Frozen-pipe damage can be significant. Estimates range from $5,000 in water damage in many cases to $70,000 or more, depending on how far the water spreads and what restoration is needed.
Below are simple, practical steps you can take to help prevent frozen pipes in the Atlanta area, plus safe thawing instructions if a pipe is already frozen.
Quick Guide: What to Do Before a Freeze in Metro Atlanta
Best prevention steps
- Insulate exposed pipes in attics, basements, crawl spaces, garages, and under sinks.
- Seal air leaks near plumbing and around doors/windows to block cold drafts.
- Disconnect outdoor hoses and drain exterior faucets.
- Open cabinet doors to circulate warm air around pipes on exterior walls.
- Keep the garage door closed to protect any plumbing in that space.
Only for the coldest nights
- Let faucets drip just barely to keep water moving.
- Maintain the home's heat so unheated areas don't drop too low.
- Prepare for outages (loss of heat can dramatically increase the risk of freezing).
Where Pipes Freeze Most Often in Atlanta Homes
Pipes typically freeze where they're exposed to cold air and don't receive consistent heat. Check these common trouble spots:
- Pipes along outside walls (especially in kitchens and bathrooms)
- Crawl spaces and unconditioned basements
- Attics and storage rooms
- Garages (near doors, vents, or exterior walls)
- Pipes under the kitchen and bathroom cabinets
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
1) Insulate Exposed Pipes
Use pipe sleeves, UL-listed heat tape, or a heat cable on pipes in unheated areas: attic, basement, crawl space, garage, and under kitchen/bathroom cabinets.
2) Seal Air Leaks Near Plumbing
Drafts can chill pipes quickly. Seal gaps where pipes enter walls, floors, and cabinets, and address cold air leaks around doors and windows—especially near kitchens, baths, laundry rooms, and garages.
3) Keep the Garage Door Closed
A closed garage helps keep more heat inside and protects any exposed lines in that space.
4) Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Disconnect hoses, then drain exterior faucets. If you have a shut-off valve for outdoor lines, shut it off and drain the line.
5) Open Cabinet Doors to Circulate Warm Air
On freezing nights, open kitchen, bathroom, and laundry cabinet doors to let warm indoor air circulate around pipes.
6) Let Faucets Drip (Just Barely) on the Coldest Nights
A small drip can keep water moving, which helps reduce pressure if ice forms in the line. Use this tip only during the coldest nights, and make sure the drain area is clear to avoid overflow.
7) Plan for Power Outages
If power goes out during a hard freeze, pipes can freeze fast as indoor temperatures drop. Consider a backup power option, such as a generator, to help keep heat running during outages.
Signs a Pipe May Be Frozen
- No water or very low flow from a faucet
- Visible frost on exposed piping
- Pipes that look bulged or feel unusually cold to the touch
- Water supply issues are isolated to one area of the home
If you suspect a freeze, act quickly. Frozen pipes are most likely to burst as they begin to thaw.
How to Thaw Frozen Pipes Safely
- Turn on the faucet. Water movement helps speed thawing and shows when the ice begins to melt.
- Find the frozen section. Look along outside walls, under sinks, or in crawl spaces/garages.
-
Apply heat safely. Use:
- Electric heat pads
- Electric hair dryers
- Portable space heaters (kept a safe distance from anything flammable)
- Towels soaked in hot water
Never use an open flame (e.g., a blowtorch or anything that projects flame). This can damage the pipe and create a fire hazard.
- Inspect after thawing. Once full flow returns, check the pipe for leaks or cracks along the entire length.
If a Pipe Bursts: Do This First
- Shut off the main water valve immediately.
- Call an Estes professional plumber for repair as soon as possible.
Burst pipes can cause rapid flooding and long-term issues like mold if water isn't addressed quickly.
Need Help With Frozen Pipes in Metro Atlanta?
Estes Plumbing Services helps homeowners across the Atlanta area with winterization, insulation, frozen-pipe troubleshooting, and burst pipe repairs. If you're preparing for an Atlanta winter storm—or dealing with a frozen line now—our team is ready to help.