Frozen Pipes in NJ: Prevention, Thawing & What to Do When One Bursts

Why Do Pipes Freeze in NJ?

Water expands when it freezes. When the water inside a pipe freezes, that expansion creates enormous pressure — enough to rupture metal and plastic pipes alike. NJ pipes are most at risk when temperatures drop below 20°F, particularly in areas without insulation: exterior walls, unheated crawl spaces, garages, and attic spaces where pipes may run.

Which Pipes Are Most at Risk?

Pipes in exterior walls are the most vulnerable, followed by pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces, garages, and unfinished basements. Supply lines to hose bibs (outdoor faucets) are also common freeze points if they weren't properly winterized in the fall. In homes with older construction, pipes may run through areas that weren't designed with freeze protection in mind.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Prevention is far less expensive than repair. Key steps include: insulating pipes in exposed or unheated areas using foam pipe insulation sleeves, keeping heat set no lower than 55°F even when away from home, opening cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to allow warm air to circulate, letting a thin trickle of water run from faucets on very cold nights, and disconnecting garden hoses and shutting off outdoor faucets from inside the home before winter.

Signs of a Frozen Pipe

If you turn on a faucet and get little or no water flow during cold weather, you likely have a frozen pipe. Frost visible on exposed pipes is an obvious sign. You may also notice unusual smells from drains or faucets, or a slight bulge in the pipe if it has already begun to expand.

How to Safely Thaw Frozen Pipes

If you locate a frozen pipe and it hasn't burst yet, you can attempt to thaw it carefully. Never use an open flame. Safe methods include a hair dryer, electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, or warm (not boiling) water applied with towels. Always work from the faucet end toward the frozen section so melting water has somewhere to go. Stop immediately and call a plumber if the pipe appears cracked or damaged.

If a Pipe Bursts

Shut off the main water supply immediately. If the burst is near electrical panels or wiring, shut off electricity to that area as well. Call Advantage Plumbing at 973-240-5230 for emergency pipe repair. We respond 24/7 throughout Northern NJ and can get your water restored quickly with a proper permanent repair.