Colorado Springs experiences some of the most dramatic temperature swings in the country. In a single January day, temperatures can swing from -10°F overnight to 45°F by afternoon — and those freeze-thaw cycles are the primary cause of frozen and burst pipes in El Paso County. The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety estimates that frozen pipe bursts cause more than $1 billion in property damage annually across the United States, and Colorado is consistently among the hardest-hit states.

Which Pipes Are Most Vulnerable to Freezing in Colorado Springs?

• Pipes in exterior walls — especially north-facing walls with little insulation
• Pipes in unheated crawlspaces, basements, and garages
• Pipes in attics — especially in older homes where plumbing was routed through attic spaces
• Outdoor hose bibs and irrigation lines
• Pipes in vacation homes or properties left unoccupied during winter
• Supply lines to washing machines in unheated laundry rooms

Warning Signs of a Frozen Pipe

Frozen pipes often give warning signs before they burst. If you notice any of these, act immediately:

• No water or reduced water flow from a faucet during or after a cold snap
• Frost visible on exposed pipes
• Unusual odors from faucets (ice can trap sewer gases)
• Bulging or cracking visible on exposed pipes
• Banging or clanking sounds in walls when temperatures drop

How to Safely Thaw a Frozen Pipe

If you suspect a frozen pipe but it hasn't burst yet, you may be able to thaw it safely. First, open the faucet served by the frozen pipe — this relieves pressure as the ice melts and gives you confirmation when flow is restored. Then apply heat to the frozen section:

• Electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe
• Hair dryer on low heat, moving back and forth along the pipe
• Warm towels soaked in hot water wrapped around the pipe
• Space heater aimed at the area (keep away from flammable materials)

NEVER use an open flame, propane torch, or kerosene heater to thaw pipes. These create fire hazards and can cause pipes to burst from rapid thermal expansion. Work from the faucet end toward the frozen section — not from the middle outward, which can trap steam and cause the pipe to burst.

What to Do When a Frozen Pipe Bursts

If a frozen pipe bursts, you have seconds to act before significant water damage occurs. Shut off the main water supply valve immediately — know where it is before winter arrives. Turn off electricity to affected areas. Then call a water damage restoration professional immediately. Do not wait to see if the area dries on its own — water from a burst pipe travels rapidly through wall cavities and under flooring, causing hidden damage that leads to mold and structural problems.

Frozen Pipe Prevention Checklist for Colorado Springs Homeowners

• Insulate all pipes in exterior walls, crawlspaces, and garages with foam pipe insulation
• Seal air leaks near pipes — cold air infiltration is a primary cause of pipe freezing
• Keep thermostat at 55°F minimum even when away — the cost of heating is far less than water damage
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before the first freeze (typically October in Colorado Springs)
• Install frost-free hose bibs on all outdoor spigots
• Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls during cold snaps
• Let faucets drip slowly (about 1 drip per second) when temperatures drop below 20°F
• Have a trusted neighbor check your home if you travel during winter
• Install a smart water shutoff valve that can detect leaks and shut off automatically