Yes — sudden cold snaps can put household pipework at real risk, and we’ll tell you what to do right away. In our experience, sharp temperature swings cause water to freeze and expand, which raises pressure and can lead to burst pipes and serious water damage.
We check the most vulnerable runs — exposed lines, exterior walls and unheated spaces — and explain simple, safe steps to reduce harm. If you suspect frozen pipes, keep a tap slightly open during thawing, apply gentle heat like a hairdryer or warm towels, and never use open flames.
If you see moisture or leaks after thawing, turn off the main water supply and call for help. Our OnCall Emergency Plumbers team is available 24/7 across Melbourne for urgent plumbing, blocked drains, burst pipes and leak fixes. For immediate assistance call 1800 571 216.
Key Takeaways
- Cold weather and falling temperatures can freeze water and increase risk of ruptures.
- Exterior and unheated pipe runs are most at risk during winter snaps.
- Safe thawing: keep taps open, use gentle heat, avoid flames.
- Turn off main water if you see leaks after thawing to limit water damage.
- Prevent with insulation, draught sealing and steady indoor warmth.
- OnCall Emergency Plumbers offer 24/7 emergency support and affordable, quality repairs.
Cold weather in Melbourne: why pipes freeze and where the risks are highest
Sudden cold snaps cause a simple chain reaction: water cools, ice forms inside runs, and trapped water between blockages and closed taps builds pressure that can split lines.
Why freezing causes pressure build-up and bursts
When water freezes it expands and creates an ice plug. That plug traps liquid between it and a closed tap.
The trapped water has nowhere to go, so pressure rises and weak spots or joints can fail.
Vulnerable locations
Exterior walls, garages and crawl spaces are the highest risk because they are often unheated and exposed to wind chill.
Under-sink runs near exterior walls also suffer if cabinet doors stay shut and warm air cannot reach the lines.
How temperature drops affect plumbing
Overnight temperatures near 0°C or sudden temperature drops encourage ice formation inside pipes. Exposed and under-insulated sections are most at risk.
We recommend insulating exposed runs and keeping unheated areas warmer before a cold change.
OnCall Emergency Plumbers serves Melbourne 24/7 with experienced teams ready to manage freezing-related issues — call 1800 571 216 for urgent help.
Spotting the warning signs of frozen pipes and potential burst pipes
Watch for sudden drops in tap flow, frost on exposed runs and unusual noises. These small signs help us spot problems early and act before a full failure.
Low flow, frost, noises and discoloured water
We check taps and sinks for little or no flow, intermittent service or strange gurgles when fixtures are opened. Visible frost or heavy condensation on a run is a clear red flag.
Discoloured or odd-tasting water can point to internal corrosion or disturbed sediment after a stress event.
How pressure builds and raises burst pipe risk
Ice or a blockage traps liquid between a closed tap and the cold plug. That trapped volume raises pressure and increases the chance of a burst pipe in a short section of line.
When to shut off the main water supply
If we see damp patches, drips or pooling, we turn water off at the main to limit water damage. After isolating the supply, open affected taps to relieve remaining pressure.
- Note: For suspected burst pipe or freezing, call our team 24/7 on 1800 571 216.
- For non-urgent help see our emergency plumbing services.
frozen pipes melbourne: what to do right now if your pipes freeze
Start with a targeted check of exposed runs and unheated spaces to find where water has stopped moving. Quick action reduces the chance of a burst and limits clean-up.
Find the frozen section
Inspect unheated areas like crawl spaces, garages and along exterior walls where ice forms first. Look for frost, low flow or cold spots on the run.
Keep the tap open
We let faucets drip at the affected fixture to relieve pressure and help melted water escape. Even a small flow speeds thawing and lowers pressure inside the line.
Apply safe heat
Use a hairdryer, heat lamp or warm towels and move steadily toward the tap. Apply gentle warmth until flow returns.
What not to do
Never use open flames or pour boiling water directly on a cold pipe. Rapid temperature change or unsafe heaters can warp fittings and worsen leaks.
After thawing
Check fittings and joints for moisture. If we spot drips, turn water off at the main and call for professional help.
| Immediate Action | Why it helps | Tool |
|---|---|---|
| Locate cold run | Targets the problem quickly | Visual check, touch test |
| Let faucets drip | Relieves pressure as ice melts | Open tap slightly |
| Apply gentle heat | Controlled thawing, reduces damage | Hairdryer, warm towels |
For urgent thawing help or if a pipe has split, we offer 24/7 emergency response across Melbourne with quality, affordable repairs. Call 1800 571 216.
How to prevent pipes freezing before the next cold snap
A little planning and targeted insulation make a big difference when temperatures fall. We focus on heat retention and keeping water moving so small issues don’t become major damage.
Insulate exposed runs and hot water lines
We fit insulation sleeves on exposed runs and hot water system lines to retain heat. Good insulation reduces ice formation during temperature drops and protects water pipes in vulnerable areas.
Maintain indoor temperature and warm sinks
We keep the home near 13°C when away for winter trips. We also open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls so warm air circulates around pipework.
Keep water moving and seal draughts
We let faucets drip slightly on the coldest nights; even a slow trickle helps prevent ice and keeps supply flowing. We seal draughts around penetrations, windows and doors to stop cold air reaching unheated areas like garages.
Extra protection and checks
In very exposed spaces we add heat tape and extra insulation. We recommend a pre-winter plumbing check if your home has older runs or visible wear.
Plan ahead — and if you want a professional pre-winter inspection, call us 24/7 on 1800 571 216.
Need help fast? OnCall Emergency Plumbers Melbourne — 24/7 burst pipe and leak repairs
A rapid, professional response makes the difference between a short repair and major water damage. We operate 24/7 to stabilise sites, limit flooding and restore water quickly.
Why choose us
Experienced technicians handle urgent burst events and related plumbing issues with clear, affordable solutions. We use trusted brand parts to ensure repairs last.
When to call 1800 571 216
Call us for a suspected frozen pipe, a visible burst, unexplained leaks or loss of water supply. We advise on isolating the water and relieving pressure while a plumber is en route.
Same-day service across the city
We serve homes and businesses with same-day emergency plumbing, diagnosing breaks, fixing water pipes and restoring hot water where needed.
- Rapid site stabilisation and professional repairs for burst pipes and leaks.
- Phone guidance to reduce water damage before we arrive.
- Prevention advice and insulation upgrades after repairs.
Ready to help now — call 1800 571 216 or visit our emergency plumber page for same-day response.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Knowing which areas are most exposed helps us stop frozen pipes before they burst. Sudden temperature falls let water freezes inside lines, trapping pressure at vulnerable joints and raising the risk of a burst.
Act quickly: keep taps slightly open for controlled thawing, apply gentle heat and turn water off at the main if you find moisture or leaks. These steps limit damage and speed recovery.
Insulate exposed runs, open cabinet doors and keep modest indoor warmth through winter to reduce future problems. If freezing occurs in concealed sections or damage is suspected, professional help is safer and more durable.
For urgent, 24/7 support across Melbourne call 1800 571 216 — we’ll assess risk, stabilise any burst and restore your water quickly.
FAQ
Can water in our home freeze during a Melbourne cold snap and cause a burst?
Yes. When temperatures approach 0°C, water inside metal or plastic pipes can form ice, which increases internal pressure and may lead to a burst. Areas with poor insulation or exposure to cold air are at highest risk. We recommend checking vulnerable sections and taking preventive steps when the forecast predicts severe cold.
Why does freezing water make pipes more likely to rupture?
Ice occupies more volume than liquid water. That expansion raises pressure between the ice blockage and the closed tap, stressing pipe joints and fittings until a failure occurs. Rapid temperature swings increase the chance of a sudden pressure spike and a leak or burst.
Which locations in our house are most vulnerable to freezing and damage?
Unheated areas such as garages, crawl spaces, under-sink cabinets, and runs along exterior walls are most exposed. Hot water system lines and any pipework in poorly insulated roof spaces or behind external cladding also rank highly for risk.
What signs indicate a pipe is frozen or about to burst?
Watch for reduced or no water flow, frost or ice on pipe surfaces, unusual banging or hissing noises, and cloudy or discoloured water when flow returns. Any sudden drop in water pressure or visible damp spots warrants immediate action.
When should we shut off the main water supply to prevent damage?
Turn the main off if you find active leakage, visible cracks, or rapidly spreading water inside walls or ceilings. Isolating the supply limits flooding while you call a plumber. If you’re unsure, shutting the water off is the safer option until a professional inspects the system.
What should we do immediately if we suspect a frozen section?
Locate likely cold spots in unheated areas like garages, crawl spaces and along exterior walls. Open nearby taps slightly to relieve pressure and allow melting water to escape. Apply gentle heat with a hairdryer, heat lamp or warm towels—never use an open flame.
Are there actions we must avoid when thawing a frozen pipe?
Do not use boiling water directly on pipes, and never leave portable heaters or open flames unattended near pipework. Rapid temperature shocks can damage pipes, and unsafe heaters risk fire. If thawing fails or you find damage, call a licensed plumber promptly.
After thawing, how should we check for damage or leaks?
Inspect exposed runs and joints for moisture or small drips, monitor water pressure, and run taps to flush any discoloured water. If you detect leaks or a drop in pressure, turn off the mains and contact an emergency plumber for repairs.
How can we prevent freezing before the next cold snap?
Insulate exposed runs and hot water lines, seal draughts around penetrations, and fit pipe insulation or heat tape in unheated zones. Keep indoor temperatures around 13°C when away, open under-sink cabinet doors to allow warmer air circulation, and let a small tap drip during extreme cold to keep water moving.
Is letting taps drip really effective at reducing burst risk?
Yes. A slow, steady drip keeps water moving, reducing the chance of ice forming a solid blockage and lowering the pressure build-up that causes bursts. Use this tactic in tandem with insulation and other preventive measures.
Can we rely on portable heaters to protect unheated areas like garages or crawl spaces?
Portable heaters can help but must be used carefully. They should be rated for the space, kept clear of flammable materials and monitored continuously. Preferred options include installing fixed heat sources, heat tape on pipes, or better insulation for long-term protection.
When should we call an emergency plumber for suspected burst pipes or leaks?
Contact emergency plumbing immediately if you see active leaking, water spreading inside walls or ceilings, no water supply after thawing, or if you find a noticeable rupture. Rapid professional intervention limits water damage and can prevent costly repairs.
What preventive measures are best for holiday periods when we’re away from home?
Maintain indoor temperatures near 13°C, shut off and drain non-essential systems if possible, open cabinet doors to warm pipework, and arrange for someone to check the property during severe cold. Combining these steps with good insulation reduces the risk while you’re away.
Do hot water systems need special protection against cold snaps?
Yes. Insulate exposed hot and cold lines connected to the system, check the unit’s location for draughts, and consider wrapping vulnerable pipes with approved heat tape. Regular servicing also helps identify weak points before a cold event.
