As winter approaches, homeowners face the annual challenge of keeping their pipes from freezing. When temperatures drop, water inside the pipes can freeze and expand, causing the pipes to burst. This often leads to expensive repairs, water damage, and major disruptions. While many people turn to complicated or costly solutions, my aunt discovered a surprisingly simple trick that requires almost no effort.

Understanding the Risks of Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes can do far more than interrupt water flow—they can cause severe structural damage. As water turns to ice, it expands with enough pressure to crack or burst the pipe. The resulting leaks often cause mold, warped floors, damaged insulation, and thousands of dollars in repairs. Insurance reports show that burst pipes can cost anywhere from $5,000 to over $70,000 depending on the severity of the damage.

The Simple Trick My Aunt Swears By

Her method combines foam pipe insulation with a small, safe, thermostatically controlled space heater placed in the same room—not directly against the pipes. The insulation keeps heat in, while the gentle ambient warmth helps keep the entire area above freezing. This approach is inexpensive, requires minimal setup, and adds an extra layer of protection during the coldest nights.

How the Trick Works

Foam insulation reduces heat loss from the pipes, helping maintain the water’s temperature.
A low-wattage heater, placed safely in the room or cabinet, keeps the air warm enough to prevent freezing.
Together, they help maintain a stable temperature around vulnerable pipes without constant monitoring.

Step-by-Step Guide

Purchase foam pipe insulation from a hardware store.
Measure the pipe length and cut insulation to size.
Snap the foam around the pipes and secure with tape if needed.
Place a low-wattage, tip-over-safe, thermostat-equipped space heater in the room or nearby open cabinet—not touching the pipes.
Set the heater to a low temperature or connect it to a timer for extremely cold periods.

Additional Tips for Keeping Pipes Warm

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