Indianapolis – October 19, 2026 -- Frozen pipes can turn into a $30,000 problem, and an Indianapolis-area plumber says homeowners should prepare before freezing weather arrives.
Complete Comfort Heating, Air and Plumbing cites State Farm's latest figures on winter insurance claims for frozen pipes and water damage. The average payout exceeded $30,000 when flooring, drywall and personal property claims were included.
A pre-winter inspection can catch cracks and corrosion early
Owner Kenneth Hale recommends a professional plumbing inspection before temperatures drop. Finding small cracks or corrosion early gives homeowners time to schedule repairs and "avoid an unexpected winter emergency," he said.
Three steps homeowners can take themselves
- Insulate pipes in unheated spaces and along outside walls in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Drain outside garden hoses and pipes, and cover or insulate faucets.
- Caulk and seal gaps in areas prone to drafts.
Open cabinets and run a trickle when it freezes
Once temperatures reach freezing, Hale advises opening cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around pipes. He also suggests letting a small stream of water run from faucets to help prevent ice from forming inside the pipes.
Hale notes that repairing structural damage to walls, flooring and foundations often takes weeks or months.