Yes, Pipes Can Freeze in Florida
It sounds unlikely, but pipes absolutely can freeze in Bradenton. We do not get the prolonged deep freezes that northern states do, but when temperatures drop into the low 30s or upper 20s — which happens a few times most winters — Florida homes are actually more vulnerable than homes up north. Why? Because our pipes are not insulated for cold weather. Many homes in Manatee County have exposed plumbing in garages, under raised homes, and in exterior walls with little or no insulation.
A burst pipe from freezing can dump hundreds of gallons of water into your home in a matter of hours. It is one of the most expensive plumbing emergencies we see at Rosco Plumbing, and it is almost entirely preventable.
How to Protect Your Pipes
When a cold snap is in the forecast, take these steps the evening before temperatures are expected to drop. Open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks to let warm indoor air reach the pipes. Let a thin stream of water — just a pencil-width trickle — run from one or two faucets overnight. Moving water is much harder to freeze than standing water. If you have exposed pipes in the garage, keep the garage door closed.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls
- Let faucets drip slowly overnight — both hot and cold lines
- Keep the garage door closed if any water lines run through it
- Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor spigots
- Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers (available at hardware stores)
- Set your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees, even if you are away
Related: understanding your home's shutoff valves, pipe leak repair services
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out on a cold morning, a pipe may be frozen. Do not panic — a frozen pipe is not the same as a burst pipe. You may be able to thaw it before any damage occurs. Open the faucet so melting water can flow through. Apply gentle heat to the suspected frozen section using a hair dryer, heat lamp, or towels soaked in hot water. Never use an open flame or torch on a pipe.
If you cannot locate the frozen section, or if you see bulging or cracked pipe, shut off the main water valve immediately and call a plumber. At Rosco Plumbing, we handle frozen and burst pipe emergencies throughout Manatee County. Our number is (941) 345-2464.
Related: emergency plumbing services
Florida cold snaps are brief but dangerous for unprotected plumbing. A few simple precautions on cold nights can save you from a burst pipe and thousands of dollars in water damage. Stay warm, Bradenton.