How to Prevent Frozen Pipes Before the Deep Freeze Hits
- daltonjodrey
- Nov 13, 2025
- 2 min read
When the temperatures dip across Nova Scotia, frozen pipes can quickly turn from a small inconvenience to an expensive repair. The good news? A little preparation now can help you prevent frozen pipes and enjoy a worry-free winter.
1. Start Outside
Outdoor plumbing is the first to feel the freeze, so it’s the best place to start.
Disconnect and drain all garden hoses.
Shut off and drain the water supply to outdoor taps.
Consider upgrading to frost-free hose bibs for extra protection.
Even a small amount of leftover water can freeze, expand, and split a pipe. Taking care of outdoor connections before the deep cold hits can save you from leaks later on.
2. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, or garages need extra care.
Use foam sleeves or insulation wrap to cover exposed lines.
Focus on pipes along exterior walls or near vents and windows.
Secure insulation with tape or zip ties so it stays in place.
For a budget-friendly option, cut a pool noodle lengthwise and slide it over the pipe; it works surprisingly well in a pinch.
Insulating your pipes helps maintain water temperature and reduces the risk of freezing, even during sudden cold snaps.
3. Seal Out Drafts
Cold air sneaking in through small gaps can cause pipes to freeze even inside your home.
Check where pipes pass through walls, floors, and foundations.
Use caulking or expanding foam to fill small cracks.
Add weatherstripping or insulation around basement windows and sill plates.
Sealing these openings not only keeps pipes warmer, it also improves your home’s overall energy efficiency.
4. Keep Warm Air Moving
Sometimes the simplest way to prevent frozen pipes is just to help the warm air do its job.
Open cabinet doors under sinks along exterior walls.
Keep interior doors open to let heat move throughout the house.
On very cold nights, let a slow trickle of water run from faucets.
Allowing heat and water movement keeps temperatures steady around vulnerable plumbing, especially overnight.
5. Watch for Warning Signs
Frozen pipes often give you a few clues before they burst.
Water flow slows to a trickle or stops completely.
Pipes feel unusually cold or frosty to the touch.
You hear clanking or banging sounds when turning on the tap.
If you suspect a freeze, shut off the water and gently warm the area with a hair dryer or portable heater; never use an open flame. Once thawed, check for any leaks before turning the water back on fully.
 Be Ready All Winter and Prevent Frozen Pipes
The best way to prevent frozen pipes is to think ahead. A bit of insulation, a few sealed gaps, and steady airflow can make all the difference once winter settles in.
Cold weather is part of life here on the South Shore, but frozen pipes don’t have to be. With a little prevention, you can keep water flowing smoothly all season long and avoid those mid-winter plumbing surprises.
Download our free Homeowner Guidebook
It’s packed with practical tips for every season, from plumbing and heating to septic and cottage care.
 It’s the perfect resource for keeping your home running worry-free all year.