Plumbing
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Reno, Sparks & Carson City
By S&S Mechanical Team, Union-trained plumbers & pipefitters ·
Short answer: Disconnect hoses, insulate pipes in garages and crawl spaces, open cabinet doors on exterior walls, and keep the thermostat at 55°F or higher even when you are away. If a pipe bursts, shut off the main water valve immediately and call for 24/7 emergency service.
Before the first freeze
Northern Nevada nights regularly drop into the teens. Prepare by:
- Disconnecting and draining garden hoses
- Installing frost-free hose bibs or insulated covers
- Insulating exposed pipes in garages, attics and crawl spaces
- Blowing out irrigation lines and backflow preventers
- Knowing exactly where your main shut-off valve is
If a pipe freezes
Open the faucet and warm the pipe gently with a hair dryer, working from the faucet back toward the frozen section. Never use an open flame. If you cannot find or reach the frozen section, call us.
