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By Biddle’s Services — Woman-Led. Family-Run. Master-Level Trades.
When winter temperatures drop in Maryland, the risk of frozen and burst pipes rises quickly. What starts as reduced water flow can turn into thousands of dollars in water damage in a matter of minutes. At Biddle’s Services, we see it every year — and most frozen pipe emergencies are completely preventable with the right steps.
Here’s what homeowners should know to keep their plumbing safe during extreme cold.
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
Pipes freeze when the water inside them drops below 32°F. As the water turns to ice, it expands — creating pressure inside the pipe until it cracks or bursts.
This most commonly happens when:
- Outdoor temperatures stay below freezing
- Outdoor spigots aren’t winterized
- Pipes run through unheated areas (crawl spaces, garages, basements)
- Cabinet doors stay closed, blocking warm air
- There’s poor insulation around plumbing lines
Warning Signs a Pipe May Be Freezing
If you catch these signs early, you can prevent a burst:
- Reduced water pressure or trickling water
- Frost or ice forming on exposed pipes
- Very cold areas under sinks or along exterior walls
- Gurgling or unusual noises when faucets are turned on
Early intervention is key — once a pipe bursts, the damage is immediate and severe.
Simple Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes
You don’t need to be a plumber to protect your home. These tips go a long way:
1. Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses
This prevents ice from traveling into the hose bib (spigot) and connected piping.
2. Winterize outdoor spigots
Use insulating covers or shut off the interior valve if your home has one.
3. Keep warm air moving
On extremely cold nights:
- Open kitchen + bathroom cabinets
- Let faucets drip lightly
- Keep interior doors open so heat circulates
4. Insulate exposed pipes
Pipes in crawl spaces, unfinished basements, and garages need insulation sleeves or heat tape.
5. Maintain steady indoor temperatures
Try not to let your home fall below 55°F — even if you’re away.
If You Think a Pipe Is Already Frozen
Do not wait for it to thaw on its own.
Do not use open flames or space heaters directly on pipes.
Instead:
- Turn on the faucet (a small flow relieves pressure)
- Apply gentle heat with a hair dryer or heating pad
- Call a licensed plumber if the pipe is fully frozen or inaccessible
A frozen pipe can become a burst pipe incredibly fast — especially overnight.
How Biddle’s Services Can Help
As a woman-led, family-run business, we approach plumbing emergencies with clarity, communication, and care. We know homeowners want solutions that are fast, honest, and stress-free during cold weather.
Our master-licensed plumbing team can:
- Thaw frozen pipes safely
- Repair damaged or burst lines
- Winterize outdoor and vulnerable plumbing
- Identify problem areas before they fail
- Provide fast, local service in Edgewater, Annapolis, Riva, Mayo, Bowie, South County, and surrounding areas
We respond quickly because water damage doesn’t wait.
Stay Warm. Stay Safe. We’ve Got You Covered.
If you’re dealing with reduced water flow, suspected freezing, or want to winterize before the next cold snap, our team is here to help.
Tap “Call” on our Google profile or send us a message to schedule service.
Biddle’s Services — Master-Level HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical. Woman-Led. Family-Run.
