Why it happens here
Homes in the Carolinas are built for mild winters, so pipes often run through vented crawl spaces, exterior walls and attics. A single night in the teens is enough to split an exposed line.
Before a hard freeze
- Close foundation vents and the crawl-space door
- Disconnect hoses and cover outdoor spigots
- Insulate pipes near vents with foam sleeves
- Open sink cabinets on exterior walls
- Let a faucet farthest from the main drip, hot and cold
If a pipe freezes
Open the faucet it feeds and warm the pipe gently with a hair dryer or space heater — never an open flame. If you see a split, shut off the main before the ice thaws, because that's when it starts leaking.
Long-term fixes for pipes that freeze every winter
If the same line freezes every cold snap, move beyond stopgaps: seal and insulate the crawl space, insulate the exterior wall cavity, replace old hose bibs with frost-free sillcocks, or reroute the pipe to a warmer space. Thermostatically controlled heat cable is an option on exposed pipes in crawl spaces.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in the Carolinas: when to call a pro
- More than one leak in a year
- Gray plastic supply pipes stamped PB2110
- Rust-colored water or low pressure (galvanized)
- Green or white crust on copper joints
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in the Carolinas: common questions
At what temperature do pipes freeze?
Exposed pipes are at risk when outdoor temperatures drop into the low 20s °F or below for several hours, especially with wind in a vented crawl space.
Should I leave the heat on when I travel in winter?
Yes. Keep the thermostat at 55 °F or higher, and consider shutting off the main water supply while you're away.
At what temperature do pipes freeze?
Risk rises when temperatures stay below freezing for hours, especially overnight, for pipes in crawl spaces, garages and exterior walls.
Should I drip my faucets during a freeze?
Letting a faucet on an exterior wall drip on the coldest nights keeps water moving and relieves pressure, which helps prevent bursts.
How long can a freeze last in Charlotte?
Usually not long, but in January 2025 Charlotte stayed at or below freezing for about 67 hours straight, the longest stretch in nearly three decades according to National Weather Service data reported by WCCB.
Every home differs; editorial standards.