A single frozen pipe can turn into a burst pipe, a flooded basement, and an expensive repair. Knowing how to prevent frozen pipes is one of the most valuable things a Philadelphia-area homeowner can do before the first deep freeze. This guide pulls together guidance from the Philadelphia Water Department and the American Red Cross so you can protect your home, your budget, and your home's value this winter.
Why Frozen Pipes Matter for Philadelphia Homeowners
Pipes that run through unheated basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls are the most vulnerable when temperatures drop, and a frozen pipe can crack. In Philadelphia, the Water Department is clear that it is not responsible for your pipes, even if they are outside your home, so repairs on the private side fall to the property owner and a licensed plumber.
When to Take Action
The Philadelphia Water Department recommends taking precautions when the forecast calls for temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, especially for two days or more. That is your cue to work through the checklist below.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes: A Winter Checklist
1. Know where your shutoff valve is
Find your house side shutoff valve before an emergency. In Philadelphia homes it is usually near the water meter. If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water quickly limits the damage.
2. Keep the meter area warm
PWD advises keeping the area around your water meter above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Insulate exposed pipes
Insulate water pipes in unheated areas such as basements, with extra attention to pipes near exterior walls in kitchens and bathrooms. The Red Cross suggests pipe sleeves or UL listed heat tape or heat cable for exposed pipes, and adding insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
4. Seal drafts near pipes and meters
Repair broken exterior windows, cover windows with plastic, and caulk windows near meters and pipes.
5. Shut off and drain outdoor faucets
Disconnect garden hoses, shut off the outdoor water supply at its indoor valve, and leave the outdoor faucet open so the remaining water can drain.
6. Let faucets drip in vulnerable spots
If your pipes have frozen before, or they run through a space you cannot keep warm, let the faucet drip during a cold snap.
7. Open cabinet doors
The Red Cross recommends opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors so warmer room air can reach the plumbing. Move cleaners and chemicals out of children's reach first.
8. Keep garage doors closed
If water supply lines run through your garage, keep the garage doors closed in cold weather.
9. Never turn the heat too low when you travel
If you will be away during cold weather, the Red Cross advises leaving the heat on and set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
10. Winterize vacant properties
If you own a vacant or unoccupied property, such as a rental between tenants or a home already under contract after you move out, PWD recommends draining and winterizing the plumbing.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
According to PWD, the first sign of freezing is usually reduced water flow from a faucet. If you have no water at all, ask a neighbor whether they have water. If they do not, the problem may be a water main break rather than your pipes.
- Leave the faucet on so melted water can drain out.
- Warm the air around the pipe, not the pipe itself. PWD warns against aiming a hair dryer directly at a pipe.
- Never use an open flame. The Red Cross warns against blowtorches, kerosene or propane heaters, charcoal stoves, or any other open flame device.
- Inspect after thawing. Check your pipes and meter for damage. In Philadelphia, report a leaking water meter to PWD at (215) 685-6300.
- Call a licensed plumber for repairs. If a pipe is damaged, shut off the water at the house side valve after the meter and have a licensed plumber make the repair.
Frozen Pipes and Your Home's Value
Water damage is something buyers and home inspectors pay close attention to. A home with insulated pipes, a known and working shutoff valve, and no history of leaks gives buyers one less thing to worry about. If you plan to sell in 2027, a little winter prevention now can help you avoid repairs that show up later during inspection. Our selling guide covers more ways to prepare.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should Philadelphia homeowners take steps to prevent frozen pipes?
The Philadelphia Water Department recommends taking precautions whenever the forecast calls for temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, especially for two days or more.
What temperature should I keep my house to prevent frozen pipes when I am away?
The American Red Cross advises leaving the heat on and set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit while you are away during cold weather.
Who is responsible for frozen pipes in Philadelphia?
The Philadelphia Water Department says it is not responsible for your pipes, even if they are outside your home. A licensed plumber should handle repairs. A leaking water meter can be reported to PWD at (215) 685-6300.
Should I let my faucets drip?
Yes, if your pipes have frozen before or run through a space you cannot keep warm, PWD recommends letting the faucet drip during freezing weather.
Protect Your Home, Plan Your Next Move
Whether you are settling into a new home or getting ready to list, our team is here to help. Find out what your home is worth with a free home valuation, browse homes for sale, learn about buying with Rarity, or contact us with any questions.
More reading: Home Maintenance Checklist: The Ultimate Guide for Protecting Your Investment Year-Round and Essential Homeowner Tips.
About the Author
Jim Roche is the CEO of The Rarity Real Estate Team, a KW Empower team that has surpassed $1 billion in closed sales across Greater Philadelphia, the Main Line, and South Jersey. A Northeast Philadelphia native and Penn State graduate, Jim has been recognized by Philly Magazine as a top producer and real estate Power Player. PA License #RS332204.
Sources: Philadelphia Water Department, "There's no water at my tap. Now what?"; American Red Cross, Preventing and Thawing Frozen Pipes. Checked November 9, 2026.
