If the shutoff’s still in a cold spot, you’re rolling the dice either way. Still, I’d rather patch a split PEX than copper any day... less drama, at least in my experience.
Couldn’t agree more about PEX being easier to deal with when things go sideways. I’ve had to crawl into more than a few tight spots to fix copper splits, and it’s never fun—especially when you’re trying to solder overhead and the water just won’t stop dripping. That said, I’ve seen folks get too comfortable with PEX and skip proper insulation, thinking it’s bulletproof. It’ll still burst if it gets cold enough, just maybe not as violently as copper.
One thing I always check is how the hose bibs are mounted—sometimes people install those “frost-free” types but don’t angle them right, so water sits in the barrel and freezes anyway. That’s a classic. And if there’s any chance the shutoff is in an unheated crawlspace or wall, I’ll always suggest heat tape or at least some foam wrap. Cheap insurance, honestly.
Couldn’t have said it better about the “frost-free” hose bibs—people think they’re set for life, but if you don’t slope them right, you’re just asking for trouble. I’ve seen more than a few split right at the barrel because someone got lazy with the install. And yeah, PEX is forgiving, but I’ve still had to replace sections where folks skipped the insulation in crawlspaces. Heat tape is cheap compared to a flooded basement. People underestimate how fast things can go sideways when temps drop.
I keep hearing about heat tape, but I’m not totally clear on how you know when you actually need it. Is it just for older houses or should everyone be using it in crawlspaces? My place is only a few years old, but the builder didn’t insulate the pipes under the porch. Not sure if I’m overthinking it or if I should just wrap them up before winter hits... Anyone ever had pipes freeze even with “frost-free” bibs?
I totally get where you’re coming from—sometimes it feels like everyone’s got a different answer about heat tape. I’ve wondered the same thing, especially since I’m trying to avoid unnecessary energy use. Have you checked if your crawlspace stays above freezing in the coldest months? I’ve read that even newer homes can have trouble spots if there’s wind or gaps. I’d probably lean toward insulating first before plugging anything in, but I’m curious if anyone’s had luck with just pipe wrap alone. Those “frost-free” bibs are supposed to help, but I’ve heard stories of them freezing if the hose gets left on...
I’ve run into the same debate every winter—insulation vs. heat tape vs. just hoping for the best. In my experience, pipe wrap alone works if you’re dealing with a well-sealed crawlspace and mild temps, but it’s a gamble once you get those deep freezes, especially if there’s any draft sneaking in. I’ve had tenants call about frozen pipes even in newer builds, usually because of a tiny gap or a vent left open.
Those “frost-free” bibs are decent, but yeah, they’re not magic. If someone leaves a hose attached, water can’t drain out and the whole thing can freeze solid. I always remind folks to disconnect hoses before the first hard freeze—learned that one the hard way after replacing a couple busted bibs.
Curious if anyone’s tried those self-regulating heat cables? I’ve heard they only kick on when temps drop, so maybe that’s a middle ground for saving energy. Still, I’d rather over-insulate than risk a flood in January...
