November’s #1 Plumbing Problem in Idaho (And How to Avoid It)
You’ve already noticed, the leaves are changing, the mornings are a bit frosty, and everyone is talking about spiced lattes and sweaters. We’ve seen it too and have a few friendly tips to offer as your plumber. Now that Idaho temperatures start dipping below freezing, one plumbing issue quickly takes center stage: frozen or burst pipes. Every year around this time, we start getting calls from homeowners in Twin Falls, Burley, and Jerome who wake up to no running water—or worse, a flooded crawl space.
Why Frozen Pipes Are So Common
November is when Idaho really starts to feel like winter. Nighttime lows often drop below 32°F, which is all it takes for water inside your pipes to freeze. When that happens, the ice expands, building pressure that can crack or burst the pipe.
The pipes most at risk are the ones you don’t see every day—those running through crawl spaces, attics, basements, or exterior walls. Even outdoor hose bibs can crack if a garden hose is left attached, trapping water that freezes overnight.
Other Cold-Weather Plumbing Problems
Frozen pipes might be the headliner, but they’re not the only issue Idaho homeowners face this time of year. Here are a few others we see every November:
Clogged outdoor drains: Fallen leaves and freeze-thaw cycles can block gutters and yard drains, leading to puddles or backups.
Water heater stress: Cold incoming water makes your system work overtime. If your tank has sediment buildup or a weak heating element, this is when problems show up.
Leaky faucets and fittings: Temperature swings cause metal and plastic plumbing parts to expand and contract, sometimes loosening seals or fittings.
Simple Ways to Prevent Winter Plumbing Headaches
A little preparation now can save you a lot of money (and stress) later. Here’s how to protect your pipes before winter hits full force:
Insulate exposed pipes—especially in crawl spaces or along exterior walls.
Disconnect and drain garden hoses before the first freeze.
Keep your home at least 55°F, even if you’re out of town.
Let faucets drip during extreme cold snaps to keep water moving.
Stay Ahead of the Freeze
At First Choice Water & Plumbing, we know Idaho winters, and we’re here to help you stay a step ahead of frozen pipe season. If you suspect a problem or just want a quick winter checkup, give us a call. A little peace of mind goes a long way when the temperature drops.