During the winter, one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face is frozen pipes. As the temperature drops, the water inside pipes can freeze, blocking water flow, leading to an increased risk of pipe leaks and even bursts. This means more complications and costly repairs.
Frozen pipes are best taken care of by professional plumbers with advanced techniques and expertise. Read this blog to learn about signs of a frozen pipe, what to do immediately, when to call a plumber, and some prevention tips for the future.
How to Tell If Your Pipes Are Frozen
Pipes usually freeze when temperatures fall below 32°F, especially in poorly insulated areas such as basements, attics, crawl spaces, garages, and walls that face the outdoors. Common signs of frozen pipes include:
- No water is coming out of a faucet
- Very low water pressure
- Pipes look swollen, bulging, or discolored
- Frost or ice visible on the pipe surface
- Strange sounds coming from pipes when turning on a faucet
- Damp spots or small leaks around the area
If you notice one or more of these signs, there is a high chance the pipe is frozen. In such cases, call a local plumber for help.
What to Do Immediately
If you suspect a frozen pipe, the first step is to turn off the main water supply. This helps prevent flooding in case the pipe bursts while thawing. Next, open the faucets connected to the frozen pipe.
This releases pressure and allows the melted water to escape.
It is advised not to touch the pipe too much, as frozen pipes can be fragile. Check for cracks, bulges, or any dripping water. Sometimes leaks only show up after the ice begins to melt, so continue observing the pipe as it thaws. If you suspect anything off, call for help.
When to Call a Professional for Frozen Pipes
Sometimes frozen pipes are located in walls, underground, or in areas you cannot spot or reach safely. If you cannot find the frozen section or if you notice any pipe damage, call a professional plumber to take care of the problem.
Plumbers use special equipment to thaw pipes quickly and safely. They can also inspect the plumbing system to check for hidden cracks or leaks. If the damage is severe, your plumber can refer you to cost-effective and long-lasting repairs or replacements.
How to Prevent Pipes From Freezing During Winters
Some helpful steps to prevent pipes from freezing include:
- Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves or heat tape
- Keep indoor temperatures above 55°F, even when you are away
- Let faucets drip slightly during very cold nights
- Keep garage doors closed
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air inside
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and foundations
Overall Insight
Frozen pipes are a common issue in winter. Common ways to indicate that your pipe is frozen are poor water pressure, swollen pipes, unusual sounds, visible frost, and damp spots around the area.
Professional plumbers can safely thaw pipes and check for cracks and leaks that may not be visible. Also, with the right strategies, freezing pipes are easily preventable.
If you suspect signs of freezing pipes in winter, call our expert plumbing team at Santana Bros Plumbing at (713) 494-5504 to schedule a visit.