Louisiana, at What Temperature Do Pipes Burst?

With next week's forecast calling for overnight temperatures dipping into the upper 20s, many across Acadiana will be wondering what kind of preparations should be taken to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

How cold does it actually have to be in Louisiana for this to happen?

Well, let's take a look...

At What Temperature Do Pipes Burst?

When temperatures start dipping into the 30s and upper 20s next week, we start talking about plants, pets, people, and pipes.

It's pretty easy to know when plants, pets, and people may be in jeopardy in cold temps, but what's the rule of thumb on pipes?

At What Temperature Do Pipes Freeze And Burst?

Is there a certain, exact temperature that your pipes will freeze and possibly bust?

The short answer is no.

We all know that water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but indoor pipes are somewhat protected from outdoor temperatures.

A big factor depends on how exposed your pipes are to freezing temperatures, and for how long.

From all-mortgage-brokers.com -

The air temperature has to remain at 20° for about 6-hours before there’s a risk of your pipes freezing. On the other hand, if you have little or no insulation, your pipes could freeze in as little as 3-hours.

 

 

Now, it's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your pipes in freezing temperatures.

The rule of thumb seems to be for protecting your pipes is 20-degree temperatures or below for 5 to 6 hours, as little as 3 hours if they're completely exposed, but taking precautions for temperatures anywhere in the 20s is certainly not a bad idea.

Do You Run Cold Or Hot Water To Keep Pipes From Freezing?

When temperatures start dipping into the mid to low 20s, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Even at a trickle, the water helps prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.