Prevention of frozen pipes in a home could save the homeowner thousands.  The average cost to hire a plumber is around $100 per hour and possibly double that or more for an emergency or if it's after hours. If pipes burst due to sub-zero temperatures it could cost more than $4000 in just labor, depending on the damage.

Tips to help prevent frozen pipes include insulating exposed pipes with foam or heat wraps before it gets cold and making sure to plug in or turn on the heat wrap when necessary. Once the winter weather arrives, open doors on cabinets that contain water lines, especially if the pipes are in an exterior wall. Hot water freezes faster than cold water so turn on the hot and cold water. It will need to be a steady stream of water as a dripping faucet can freeze.  If the pipes freeze, shut off the water at the main and call a plumber.