Iowa is once again facing a cold snap, with low temperatures that can create serious challenges for homeowners and renters alike. With daytime highs well below freezing and nighttime lows dipping to single digits, the risk of frozen pipes and the costly damage they can cause increases dramatically.
When water freezes, it expands by about nine percent. That might not sound like much, but it creates an immense amount of pressure. This pressure inside a frozen pipe can skyrocket from a normal 40 psi to as much as 40,000 psi. No pipe is designed to handle that kind of stress, which is why freezing often leads to cracks, ruptures, and major water damage once the ice begins to thaw.
Pipes running through unheated or poorly insulated areas are especially vulnerable. This includes garages, basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls. Outdoor plumbing fixtures like hose bibs, sprinkler lines, and evaporative cooler supply lines are also at high risk. During extreme cold, even interior pipes that usually stay warm enough can begin to freeze if exposed for long periods.
Reduced water flow is often the first warning sign that ice is forming. If you notice sluggish flow, turn on the faucet and carefully warm the most vulnerable pipe sections using a hairdryer. As the ice melts, the water flow will gradually increase. Never use open flames or blowtorches, which are significant fire hazards.
Taking a few simple precautions can save you from costly repairs and major water loss. One of the first steps is to protect your water meter bychecking the outdoor meter pit and ensuring the cover is fully in place. You can keep indoor meters warm by improving airflow and insulation around them and installing heat cable in areas prone to freezing. It’s always a good idea to leave the heat on when away for long periods and maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Open cabinets or interior doors to encourage warm air circulation and let interior faucets drip slightly. Even a slow trickle can help prevent freezing,
Here are some other useful tips for winterizing your home’s plumbing:
- Shut off outdoor faucets, install frost-free sillcocks, and disconnect hoses.
- Insulate your pipes, especially in basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces.
- Seal rim joists, cracks, and gaps to keep cold air out.
- Use fans or space heaters to push warm air into colder rooms — safely and according to manufacturer instructions.
- Insulate garage doors to protect plumbing that runs through or near garage areas.
- Install water leak alarms, which can alert you early to a burst pipe or unexpected water flow.
- Shut off water lines before leaving on vacation, and notify Osceola Water Works; we have a “snowbird” option for billing.
While homeowners have more flexibility in making long-term improvements, renters also play an important role in preventing frozen pipes. Communicate with your landlord about any issues, concerns, or freezing risks you notice. Use temporary fixes like draft stoppers, weatherstripping, or heavy curtains to keep cold air out. Check your lease or ask your landlord first, using space heaters safely and responsibly can make a big difference.
Extreme cold is part of Iowa winters, but frozen pipes don’t have to be. With a combination of preparation, insulation, and consistent indoor heating, you can significantly reduce the risk of pipes freezing or cracking and avoid the expensive repairs and water damage that often follow.