How to Identify and Fix Frozen Pipes

Winter and low temperatures can bring the possibility of frozen water pipes. Frozen pipes can cause loss of running water and even a burst pipe. If you think you may have a frozen pipe in your home, here is what you need to look out for, and what you can do to fix the problem.

Frozen pipes are most likely to occur in an exterior wall, basement, or attic. These locations are typically not as insulated as the rest of the home, which makes them more vulnerable to the cold. If you suspect you might have a frozen pipe, these are the first places to look.

The first clue that you may have a frozen pipe on your property is the outside temperature. If the temperature is below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit), then it is possible that you may have a problem. If you think there may be an issue, check visible pipes for signs of frost. This is a big indicator that it is frozen.

If you have turned on your faucet and noticed no water coming out or a strange smell coming from the drain, then this is an indicator that a pipe is blocked and potentially frozen. Turn off the faucet and begin the following steps to alleviate the problem.

Once you have discovered a frozen pipe, you need to thaw it immediately. This can be done on your own with a hairdryer or hot towel if the pipe is accessible. If the pipe is not accessible, we suggest contacting a plumber to inspect and fix the problem. Failure to thaw the pipe could result in it bursting which could do severe damage to your home.

If you have experienced a burst pipe in your home, a plumber will be able to help. If you have experienced flooding, as a result, give us a call. Floods can cause mold and water damage, and it is important to immediately take preventative steps to stop these problems from occurring. We are very experienced in flood and water damage restoration and offer 24-hour emergency services.