Frozen Pipes in Washington, DC

Signs of frozen pipes: no water comes out when you turn on a faucet, only a trickle, frost visible on exposed pipes, or unusual odors from drains (a frozen line can cause waste backup). In Washington, pipes in exterior walls, unheated basements, and crawl spaces freeze first.

No — but the risk is high. When water freezes, it expands and creates pressure between the ice blockage and the faucet. If that pressure has nowhere to go, the pipe bursts. Quick thawing reduces the risk. Copper and galvanized pipes are more vulnerable than PEX.

Thawing a frozen pipe without damage: $100-$300. If the pipe has burst: $200-$1,000 for the pipe repair plus water damage costs. Prevention (insulation, heat tape) costs $50-$200 per pipe run — much cheaper than repair.

In Washington winters: insulate pipes in unheated areas, leave faucets dripping during extreme cold, keep cabinet doors open under sinks on exterior walls, maintain heat at 55°F+ even when away, and disconnect garden hoses before the first freeze.