Prevent Burst Pipes in Memphis: The Cold-Weather Checklist That Works

When temperatures dip across the Mid-South, unprotected pipes can freeze and burst fast. Use this Memphis-specific checklist to protect your home and learn what to do if a pipe does break.

Quick-Start Checklist (Do These Before the Next Freeze)

• Drip select faucets on exterior walls or far runs; a steady drip helps relieve pressure in cold snaps. Open cabinet doors under sinks so warm air reaches the pipes.
• Know—and test—your main water shutoff (often a wheel or lever valve where water enters the home). Label it so anyone can shut water off in seconds.
• Winterize outdoor faucets: shut the interior supply, disconnect hoses, open the spigot to drain, then cover the faucet.
• Insulate exposed pipes in attics, garages, crawlspaces; add heat tape to the most vulnerable lines.
• Hold indoor temps steady (generally 55°F or higher), especially at night or if you’re away.
• Seal drafts near pipe runs (garage doors, rim joists, sill plates) so wind chill doesn’t super-cool the line.
• Add smart protection: leak sensors near water heater, kitchen sink, and laundry; consider a whole-home shutoff valve for peace of mind.

How to Protect Outdoor Faucets (The Right Way)

1. Find the indoor shutoff valve that feeds the outdoor spigot and turn it off.
2. Disconnect and drain the hose; store it indoors.
3. Open the exterior faucet to let remaining water escape.
4. Cover the faucet with an insulated cover to reduce exposure. (Covers help, but draining the line matters most.)

Travel Tip: Leaving Home? Do This Before You Go

• Keep heat set no lower than ~55°F.
• Open kitchen and bath cabinet doors so warm air circulates.
• Shut interior valves to outdoor faucets; drain and cover them.
• Place smart leak sensors near high-risk spots.

Suspect a Frozen Pipe? Thaw Safely

1. Open the nearest faucet (hot and cold) to relieve pressure.
2. Warm the pipe with a hair dryer or a portable heater at a safe distance. Never use an open flame.
3. Start warming near the faucet and work back toward the cold section so meltwater can exit the line.
4. If you can’t reach the freeze or the pipe is behind a wall, call Choate’s for professional help.

If a Pipe Bursts: First Steps to Limit Damage

1. Shut off the main water immediately (and electricity if water is near outlets or your panel).
2. Open cold and hot faucets to drain remaining water and reduce pressure.
3. Document the damage with photos and move valuables out of harm’s way.
4. Begin cleanup with towels/wet-dry vac to limit secondary damage and mold risk.
5. Call a licensed plumber to repair the line and a water-damage pro if needed.

Local Guidance Worth Following

Memphis Light, Gas & Water (MLGW) advises residents to let faucets drip, insulate exposed lines, open cabinets, and know the main shutoff location, simple steps that prevent big losses during hard freezes.

Why Memphis Homeowners Choose Choate’s

• Local, family-owned since 1958 with fast response across the Mid-South
• Licensed plumbers, clear pricing, and photo-documented repairs
• One call for plumbing, HVAC, and electrical, less hassle when minutes matter

Schedule Emergency Plumbing or call 901-755-4797.

Choate’s Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electrical , serving Memphis, Collierville, Germantown, Bartlett, Cordova, Lakeland, Southaven, Olive Branch, Jackson TN and nearby communities.