How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Australia’s Coldest Regions

When most Aussies think of winter, they imagine mild mornings, cosy jumpers, and the occasional dash to the heater. But for those living in our coldest regions—places like the Snowy Mountains, the Central Highlands of Tasmania, or even parts of Victoria’s alpine country—winter can be downright brutal. And while frozen pipes might sound more like a Canadian problem, they’re a very real (and costly) issue here too.

If you’ve ever turned on the tap during a cold snap only to be met with… nothing, or worse—had a pipe burst and flood your home—you’ll know exactly why it’s worth taking frozen pipes seriously. The good news? With the right know-how (and maybe a helpful tradie or two), you can prevent it from happening in the first place.

Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your pipes warm, your water flowing, and your home safe this winter.

Why Do Pipes Freeze?

Let’s break it down. Water freezes at 0°C. When temps outside dip below that, unprotected pipes—especially those exposed to the elements—can freeze solid. And since water expands as it freezes, pressure builds up inside the pipe. The result? Cracks, bursts, and all sorts of plumbing disasters.

Pipes most at risk include:

• Outdoor taps and garden hoses

• Pipes in uninsulated areas like garages, under floors, and in roof spaces

• Plumbing along exterior walls

Even if the cold snap doesn’t cause a full-on burst, frozen pipes can block your water supply, leading to frustrating delays and expensive fixes.

Simple Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Here’s the good news: it’s a preventable problem. With a few proactive steps (and maybe a trusted plumber from ServiceSeeking.com.au), you can avoid the winter plumbing blues.

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Just like we rug up in winter, your pipes need a bit of insulation too. Foam pipe lagging is easy to install and works wonders at keeping pipes above freezing. Focus on outdoor taps, pipes in roof cavities, under floors, and any that run along external walls.

If DIY’s not your thing—or if you’ve got a sprawling network of pipes—it’s well worth getting a plumber to sort it out properly. Many are happy to do a “winter check-up” before the chill really sets in.

2. Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Taps

Outdoor taps and garden hoses are often the first to freeze. Turn them off at the mains (if you can), disconnect any hoses, and let them drain. It’s a small job that can prevent a big mess.

Some homeowners even install frost-proof outdoor taps. If that sounds like a good investment, jump onto ServiceSeeking and find a licensed plumber in your area to handle the upgrade.

3. Keep the Warm Air Flowing

In really cold weather, it helps to let warm indoor air circulate around vulnerable pipes. Open up cupboard doors under sinks, especially if they’re on exterior walls. If you’re going away, keep the heating on low or ask a neighbour to check in and run the taps every few days.

4. Seal Up Gaps and Cracks

Cold air sneaking into your home can chill pipes faster than you think. Check for gaps near vents, crawl spaces, and where pipes enter the house. A quick fix with expanding foam or weather stripping can make a big difference.

Tradies on ServiceSeeking can help with sealing and insulation work too—especially if you’ve got a bigger job on your hands or need help accessing tricky areas.

What to Do if Your Pipes Freeze

If you suspect a pipe’s frozen (i.e., no water’s coming out and it’s below freezing outside), act quickly:

• Turn off the water at the mains to prevent pressure build-up

• Gently warm the frozen pipe with a hair dryer or heat pack (never use an open flame!)

• Call a licensed plumber if you're unsure or can't locate the frozen spot

And if a pipe has burst—don’t panic, but don’t delay either. Shut off the water supply and contact an emergency plumber immediately. ServiceSeeking makes it easy to find a local plumber with real reviews, so you’re not stuck searching while your laundry turns into a paddling pool.

Stay Ahead of the Cold with the Right Help

Let’s face it—preventing frozen pipes isn’t the most glamorous winter job, but it’s one that could save you thousands in repairs and water damage. And in regions where sub-zero mornings are part of the seasonal forecast, a little prep goes a long way.

Whether you need a one-off pipe inspection, some insulation work, or an emergency plumber in the middle of a cold snap, ServiceSeeking.com.au has thousands of qualified tradies ready to help. Post your job, compare quotes, and get it sorted—without the fuss.

Because when the temps drop below zero, the last thing you want is your pipes doing the same.