Protect Your Home from Frozen and Burst Pipes This Winter
Winters in Eagan, MN, are no joke. With average temperatures dipping well below freezing and frequent snowstorms, homeowners face a very real risk of frozen or burst pipes. Even a small crack in a pipe can leak hundreds of gallons of water into your home, causing extensive water damage, costly repairs, and long-term issues like mold growth.
The good news? With a few proactive steps, you can safeguard your home and avoid plumbing disasters this winter. In this guide, we’ll cover why pipe winterization is so critical in Minnesota, how to properly protect your pipes, common mistakes to avoid, and when it’s time to call in the professionals.
Why Winterizing Pipes Matters in Eagan, MN
Eagan sits in the heart of Minnesota’s snow belt, where subzero temperatures are common in January and February. According to local weather data, it’s not unusual for temperatures to stay below freezing for weeks at a time, putting tremendous pressure on water pipes.
Frozen water expands inside the pipe, creating blockages and cracks. If the pipe bursts, it can flood basements, kitchens, bathrooms, or even multiple levels of your home. Beyond the immediate water damage, homeowners also risk:
- Structural weather damage from water soaking into wood and drywall
- Mold growth within 24–48 hours of excess moisture
- Disruption to daily life if major repairs are required
- High insurance deductibles if the damage is extensive
By winterizing your pipes before a snowstorm, you protect both your property value and your peace of mind.
Signs Your Pipes Are Vulnerable to Freezing
Not all pipes are equally at risk. In Eagan homes, these areas are especially vulnerable during extreme cold:
- Exposed pipes in basements, garages, or crawl spaces
- Pipes along exterior walls without proper insulation
- Kitchen or bathroom pipes under cabinets that sit against cold outside walls
- Outdoor hose bibs and irrigation lines that still hold water
Warning signs that your pipes are already freezing include:
- Reduced water pressure or slow trickles from faucets
- Frost or condensation forming on exposed pipes
- Unusual banging or gurgling sounds when running water
- Odd smells coming from faucets or drains (caused by blockages)
Catching these signs early allows you to take immediate action before a burst occurs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Winterizing Your Pipes
Preparing your home for the next snowstorm doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Follow these steps to give your plumbing system maximum protection:
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Use foam pipe insulation sleeves, heat tape, or fiberglass wrap for pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces. This extra layer keeps temperatures above freezing.
2. Seal Drafts and Cracks
Cold air from outside can seep into walls, basements, and under cabinets. Seal gaps around windows, doors, and foundation cracks with caulk or weatherstripping.
3. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Leaving hoses attached can trap water in the line and freeze your outdoor faucet. Disconnect hoses, drain the water, and store them inside until spring.
4. Open Cabinet Doors During Extreme Cold
For sinks located on exterior walls, keep cabinet doors open so warm air can circulate around the pipes.
5. Let Faucets Drip
A small trickle of water keeps pressure from building inside the pipes, reducing the risk of bursting during freezing temperatures.
6. Keep the Heat Consistent
Even if you’re away for the holidays, set your thermostat to at least 55°F. Turning it off completely invites disaster.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Winterizing
Many Eagan homeowners try to winterize but overlook critical details. Here are some of the most common mistakes:
- Waiting until after the first freeze – Once temperatures dip below freezing, the damage may already be in progress.
- Using space heaters carelessly – They may warm pipes but also pose serious fire hazards if unattended.
- Forgetting about hidden pipes – Pipes inside crawl spaces, attics, or behind walls often go unprotected until it’s too late.
- Improperly installing insulation – Loose or incorrectly wrapped insulation can leave gaps where cold air seeps in.
- Not checking for leaks before insulating – Wrapping insulation around a leaking pipe traps moisture and can lead to mold.
Avoiding these mistakes can save you thousands in repair costs.
Immediate Actions to Take If Pipes Freeze
If you suspect a pipe has already frozen, act quickly:
- Turn off the water supply to prevent flooding if the pipe bursts.
- Apply gentle heat with a hair dryer or warm towels—never use an open flame.
- Open faucets to allow water to flow once thawed.
- Call a professional restoration company if you cannot locate the freeze or if you notice cracks forming.
The faster you respond, the more likely you can prevent or minimize water damage.
How ServiceMaster DSI – Eagan Can Help After a Pipe Burst
Even with the best prevention, Minnesota winters can be unforgiving, and pipes still burst unexpectedly. When that happens, a quick professional response is essential.
ServiceMaster DSI – Eagan specializes in emergency water damage cleanup and restoration. Our local team understands the unique challenges Eagan homeowners face during snowstorms and deep freezes. We provide:
- 24/7 emergency response for burst pipe water damage
- Professional water extraction and drying using advanced equipment
- Structural repairs and reconstruction if water causes significant damage
- Mold prevention and remediation to protect long-term health
- Insurance claims support to ease the recovery process
With decades of experience serving Eagan and the Twin Cities metro area, we’re a trusted partner for homeowners looking to protect their investments and restore their peace of mind after winter water damage.
Stay Ahead of Winter Storms in Eagan, MN
Snowstorms are a part of life in Eagan, but costly water damage from frozen pipes doesn’t have to be. By taking preventive measures, avoiding common mistakes, and knowing who to call when disaster strikes, you can keep your home safe all winter long.
If you’re already dealing with water damage from a burst pipe or want professional guidance on preparing your home, ServiceMaster DSI – Eagan is here to help 24/7.
Call ServiceMaster DSI Today for Expert Pipe Damage Restoration in Eagan, MN
Don’t let frozen pipes turn into a major disaster. Contact ServiceMaster DSI – Eagan today for immediate help with pipe bursts, water damage cleanup, and full restoration services. Our local experts are on-call day and night to keep your home safe this winter.
