Winter Plumbing: How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in the Upstate
July 21, 2026
South Carolina winters are mild compared to points north, but the Upstate still sees stretches of freezing temperatures most years — and that's all it takes for an uninsulated pipe to freeze, expand, and crack.
Which pipes are most at risk
- Pipes in unheated crawlspaces, basements, or garages
- Exposed pipes along exterior walls
- Supply lines running to outdoor faucets
How to prevent frozen pipes
- Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves — the single best prevention
- Disconnect garden hoses before the first hard freeze
- Let a faucet drip slightly overnight during a freeze warning — moving water resists freezing
- Seal gaps where pipes enter the home or crawlspace
- Open cabinet doors under sinks so warm air can reach the pipes underneath
- Keep the thermostat above 55°F even when you're away
If a pipe does freeze
Shut off the main water supply, open the affected faucet to relieve pressure, and apply gentle heat (a hair dryer or warm towels) starting from the faucet end — never an open flame. If you can't get water flowing again quickly, or you suspect the pipe already cracked, it's time to call a plumber.
If a pipe freezes or bursts, we provide 24/7 emergency plumbing service throughout Greer and the Upstate.
Getting ready for winter? Contact us and we can check your most vulnerable pipes before the cold hits.
Carolinas A1 Plumbing Service serves homeowners and businesses throughout Greer, Greenville, Spartanburg, Simpsonville, Taylors, Duncan, Lyman, Easley, Travelers Rest, Mauldin, Fountain Inn, Pickens, and Anderson. See all the areas we cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What temperature do pipes freeze at?
- Pipes are at real risk once temperatures drop into the mid-20s°F or lower for an extended period, especially pipes running through unheated spaces like crawl spaces, attics, or exterior walls.
- Should I let faucets drip in freezing weather?
- Yes, for faucets on exposed or vulnerable lines. A slow, steady drip keeps water moving, which makes freezing inside the pipe much less likely.
- What do I do if a pipe freezes?
- Shut off the main water supply if you suspect the pipe has already burst, and avoid using a torch or other high-heat tool to thaw it yourself — that's a common cause of house fires. Call a plumber to thaw and inspect it safely.
Have a plumbing problem? We serve Greer and the Upstate, 24/7.
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