If a pipe does freeze over, it can burst and cause flooding, structural damage and potential mold growth if left untreated, according to Scott Hale Plumbing.
Frozen pipes can occur when temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The risk of frozen pipes increases when temperatures are below 20 degrees, according to Freeze Miser.
This weekend, temperatures across Arizona are expected to dip below the 32-degree mark. Saturday morning, south Gila County and northwest Pinal County are expected to see temperatures in the mid-to-upper 20s. The lower deserts in Pima County will likely see temperatures in the low 30s. Freezing temperatures could come Sunday morning to Maricopa, Yuma, La Paz, Cochise and Graham counties.
Here’s what to do in preparation.
How to prevent pipes from freezing in Arizona
Residents should insulate their pipes if possible. This can be done by wrapping them in an insulation material or pipe sleeve, typically made of foam or fiberglass, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Almost like putting a jacket around your pipes, this process should help to prevent heat loss, maintain cold temperatures and protect against freezing temperatures.Pipe insulation can also improve energy efficiency and control condensation during other times of the year.
The National Weather Service urges Arizona residents to open sink cabinets to expose the pipes to the heated air in your homes. This will also help to prevent freezing. This should be done in both kitchen and bathroom sinks.
Outside hoses and sprinklers should also be disconnected and the water for them turned off.
Freeze Warnings are in effect Saturday and Sunday mornings. The warning on Sunday includes the Phoenix Metro area and surrounding deserts. Make sure you prep for freezing temps and make sure to protect the 4 P's (people, plants, pets, and pipes). #azwx pic.twitter.com/sUfklpKBgC
— NWS Phoenix (@NWSPhoenix) January 10, 2025
How else should you prepare for freezing temperatures?
In addition to prepping pipes for cold temperatures, NWS also recommended residents prepare by protecting the other three of the four P’s: people, plants and pets.People should minimize their time outdoors, prepare for potential power outages and check on elderly and other vulnerable people to make sure they are OK. Arizona’s unhoused population is especially vulnerable during freezing temperatures.
Pets, especially outdoor pets that may not be used to the cold, should be protected by keeping them warm, dry and inside as much as possible. Additionally, pet owners should keep an eye on food and water to make sure it doesn’t freeze.
Finally, residents should keep their plants bundled up too by covering them with a sheet or another material before the cold weather hits. This way the plant can retain some heat before temperatures drop.
