Protect your New York pipes from freezing. Prevention tips and emergency steps for NYC homeowners and renters.
Frozen pipes are a leading cause of burst pipes in New York during cold snaps — especially in unheated areas of older buildings.
Which pipes are most at risk in NYC? Pipes in unheated basements, exterior walls, rooftop water tanks, and garden-level apartments. Outdoor hose bibs and sprinkler lines freeze frequently.
Prevention tips Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves. Keep heat at minimum 55°F when away. Open cabinet doors under sinks on cold nights. Disconnect garden hoses before winter.
If a pipe freezes Shut off the main water valve. Open the affected faucet. Thaw slowly with a hairdryer — never use an open flame.
NYC winter reality New York sees significant frozen pipe claims every winter — especially in older buildings in the Bronx, Queens and Staten Island with exposed plumbing.
After thawing Check for leaks as the pipe warms. Even a small crack can burst under pressure and flood your apartment.
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