How to Prevent Frozen Pipes During Sub-Zero Temperatures in Downers Grove
When Downers Grove is hit with sub-zero temperatures, frozen pipes quickly become one of the biggest winter worries for homeowners. From minor inconveniences to major water damage, frozen or burst pipes can be costly and stressful.
🚰 Why Frozen Pipes Are Such a Problem
Water expands as it freezes. When that happens inside a pipe, pressure builds and can cause the pipe to crack or burst—often inside walls, ceilings, or crawl spaces where the damage isn’t immediately visible. Once temperatures rise, you could be dealing with flooding, ruined drywall, mold, and unexpected repair bills.
❄️ How to Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing
1. Keep Your Heat Set Consistently
Even if you’re heading out of town or trying to save on heating costs, never shut your heat off completely.
✔️ Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, day and night.
This is especially important for older Downers Grove homes with plumbing in exterior walls.
2. Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold
On the coldest nights, allow a slow drip from faucets connected to exterior walls. Moving water is far less likely to freeze.
Focus on:
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Kitchen sinks
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Basement utility sinks
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Bathrooms along outside walls
3. Open Cabinet Doors
Warm indoor air can’t protect pipes if it can’t reach them.
Open cabinet doors under:
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Kitchen sinks
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Bathroom vanities
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Laundry or utility sinks
This simple step can make a big difference during overnight deep freezes.
4. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Check basements, crawl spaces, garages, and utility rooms for exposed plumbing.
Easy, affordable solutions:
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Foam pipe insulation sleeves
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Insulating wrap
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Heat tape (thermostat-controlled)
5. Seal Drafty Areas
Cold air sneaking into your home can freeze pipes fast.
Inspect and seal:
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Basement windows
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Foundation cracks
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Gaps where pipes enter the home
Use caulk or spray foam to block drafts and keep warm air inside.
6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
This is one of the most commonly missed steps.
Before (or during) extreme cold:
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Disconnect garden hoses
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Drain outdoor spigots
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Install insulated faucet covers
Even frost-free hose bibs can freeze if a hose is left attached.
7. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Is
If a pipe freezes or bursts, shutting off the water quickly can save thousands of dollars in damage.
Make sure everyone in the household knows:
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Where the main shut-off valve is
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How to turn it off
🧊 What If You Suspect a Frozen Pipe?
Warning signs include:
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Little or no water coming from a faucet
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Frost visible on pipes
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Strange odors from drains
Avoid open flames. Instead:
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Use a hair dryer
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Apply warm towels
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Increase the room temperature
☀️ Or… Maybe It’s Time to Move Somewhere Warmer
Let’s be honest—when you’re dripping faucets, opening cabinets, and worrying about frozen pipes, it’s hard not to dream about sunshine and mild winters.
If sub-zero temps have you thinking:
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“I’m done with shoveling.”
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“Why does winter last so long?”
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“Maybe it’s time for a warmer lifestyle…”
You’re not alone.
Whether you’re considering downsizing, relocating somewhere warmer, buying a winter getaway, or simply wondering what your Downers Grove home is worth in today’s market, The Wardlow Group is here to help.
We can:
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Help you prepare and sell your home
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Connect you with trusted agents in warmer climates
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Create a smart plan for your next chapter—snow boots optional
Until then, stay warm, protect those pipes, and remember: spring does come back to Downers Grove… eventually ❄️☀️
The Wardlow Group has been the #1 producing real estate team in Downers Grove for over a decade based on MRED MLS sales data.
