Michigan ranked #4 state for frozen pipe losses with $7.2 million in claim costs in 2022

State Farm® recently released 2022 top states for frozen pipes and winter water losses, and Michigan landed in the top five states. As the recent holiday winter storm proved, frozen pipes and ice dams can be a large concern causing destructive water damage to homes. A one-eighth inch crack in a pipe can spray more than 250 gallons of water a day, ruining floors, carpets, furniture, and irreplaceable personal belongings. In 2022, State Farm paid over $181M total for nearly 9,000 claims from frozen pipe damage, with the average claim coming in just over $20,000. Michigan ranked #4 top state for frozen pipe losses with $7.2 million in claim costs.

A few tips taking a few minutes can save homeowners thousands.

Tips for preventing frozen pipes:

• Let faucets drip overnight to keep water moving freely.

• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks and on exterior walls.

• Seal leaks that allow cold air inside.

• Disconnect garden hoses or use indoor valve to shut off and drain water from pipes.

Tips for what to do after pipes freeze

Pipes do not always burst when frozen. There are a few things to keep in mind:

• If you turn on your faucets and nothing comes out, leave the faucets turned on and call a plumber.

• Use a hair dryer as a possible heat source (with caution). You may be able to thaw a frozen pipe using a hair dryer — make sure you are not in standing water. Start by warming the pipe as close to the faucet as possible, working toward the coldest section of pipe.

• Shut off the water supply. If your water pipes have already burst, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve in the house. Make sure everyone in your family knows where the water shutoff valve is and how to open and close it. Be sure to leave the water faucets turned on.

• Contact your insurance company if there is damage.

For more frozen pipe/claim info and a graphic: https://newsroom.statefarm.com/water--ice-not-so-nice/

Announcement from State Farm.