Winter can be tough on your plumbing, and one of the most common issues homeowners face is frozen pipes. When water inside your pipes freezes, it expands, putting pressure on the pipes and sometimes causing them to burst. The good news is that frozen pipes can often be thawed before they cause serious damage—if you act quickly. In this blog, we’ll cover what to do when your pipes freeze and how to prevent them from bursting.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
The first step when dealing with frozen pipes is to turn off the main water supply to your home. This will prevent water from flooding your home if the pipe bursts as it thaws. You’ll find the main shutoff valve near your water meter or where the main water line enters your house—often in a basement or crawl space.
• What to Do: Locate your main water shutoff valve and turn it off. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the valve is and how to shut it off in case of emergencies.
2. Locate the Frozen Pipe
Once the water is turned off, try to identify where the pipe is frozen. Look for pipes that are exposed to cold air, such as those in unheated areas like basements, attics, or garages. Common signs of frozen pipes include frost on the exterior of the pipe, a bulging or cracked pipe, or no water coming out of faucets.
• What to Do: Check pipes that are along exterior walls or in uninsulated areas. You may also notice that only certain fixtures, like a single faucet, aren’t working, which can help you narrow down the location.
3. Open Faucets to Relieve Pressure
When water freezes in a pipe, it creates pressure that can eventually cause the pipe to burst. To relieve this pressure, open the faucets connected to the frozen pipe. This will allow water to flow out as the pipe thaws, helping to prevent a burst.
• What to Do: Open both the hot and cold taps on the affected fixture. As the ice begins to melt, water will start to flow through the pipe, reducing the risk of damage.
4. Thaw the Pipe Safely
Now it’s time to thaw the frozen pipe. The key is to thaw it slowly and safely to avoid causing further damage. You should never use an open flame or blowtorch, as this can damage the pipe and create a fire hazard. Instead, use safe methods like applying heat to the pipe with a hair dryer, heating pad, or space heater.
• What to Do: Start thawing the pipe near the faucet and work your way toward the frozen section. This helps melt the ice and relieve pressure gradually. If the frozen pipe is in a hard-to-reach area, consider using a space heater or infrared lamp to warm the area.
5. Check for Leaks as the Pipe Thaws
As the pipe begins to thaw, keep an eye out for leaks. Even if the pipe hasn’t burst, it’s possible that the freeze caused small cracks or damage that could lead to leaks. If you notice water dripping or pooling as the pipe thaws, you’ll need to take immediate action to prevent water damage.
• What to Do: Watch for signs of leaks, such as water spots on walls or floors. If you find a leak, turn off the water supply again and call a plumber for repairs.
6. Call a Plumber if Necessary
If you can’t locate the frozen section of pipe, or if you’re unable to thaw it safely, it’s time to call a professional plumber. A plumber can use specialized equipment to thaw your pipes without causing damage and assess whether the pipe needs to be replaced.
• What to Do: Don’t hesitate to call a plumber if you’re unsure about how to handle a frozen pipe. Quick action can help prevent a burst pipe and avoid more extensive (and expensive) repairs.
7. Prevent Future Freezing
Once the immediate problem is solved, it’s important to take steps to prevent your pipes from freezing again. Insulating exposed pipes, keeping your home heated, and letting faucets drip during cold spells are all effective ways to prevent freezing in the future.
• What to Do: Insulate pipes in unheated areas, seal drafts, and keep your thermostat set at a consistent temperature, even when you’re away from home. On extremely cold nights, open cabinet doors to let warm air reach your pipes, and let faucets drip to keep water moving.
Conclusion
Dealing with frozen pipes can be stressful, but taking quick action can save your home from water damage. If you notice frozen pipes, follow these steps to safely thaw them and prevent bursts. And if you’re unsure how to handle the situation, don’t hesitate to call a professional. At Advocate Plumbing, we’re always ready to help with frozen pipes, burst pipes, and any other plumbing issues that come your way. Contact us today for expert assistance!
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