Freezing Temps and Burst Pipes: A Guide for Homeowners

As amazing as the winter season can be, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards that cold weather brings. One of the most serious problems associated with freezing temperatures is the risk of burst pipes.

A burst pipe can cause serious damage to your home and create an expensive repair job. That’s why you should know the signs of a frozen pipe and how to prevent and address a broken pipe.

Signs Of A Frozen Pipe

The best way to figure out if your pipes are frozen is to look for signs. Here are some of the most common indications that a pipe has become frozen:

• Cold to the Touch: If a pipe is frozen, it will feel much colder than other pipes in your home, indicating that a blockage of ice has developed inside.
• No Water Flow: The most obvious sign that your pipes are frozen is the lack of water flowing through the affected pipe.
• Frost: Another sign to look for is frost around an exposed portion of your plumbing, such as a faucet or pipe that runs through an exterior wall.
• Ice Build-Up: If water is running, but it doesn’t seem to be flowing correctly, then it’s likely that the pipe is frozen. Look for ice buildup on the exterior of your plumbing or inside if accessible.
• Strange Noises: When water is running through a frozen pipe, it may make a strange gurgling or banging sound.
• Unusual Smells: If your frozen pipes are beginning to thaw, you may notice a strange smell coming from them. This is caused by bacteria growing in the stagnant water.

If you notice any of these signs, then it’s time to take action before they burst.

When Does a Frozen Pipe Become Dangerous?

A frozen pipe can become dangerous when it starts to thaw. As the ice begins to melt, the pressure buildup will cause the pipe to expand and weaken, which can lead to a burst pipe. If left unchecked, a burst pipe can cause extensive damage to your home. It’s important to take action as soon as you notice signs of a frozen pipe to prevent this type of disaster.

Why Do Pipes Freeze?

The most common cause of frozen pipes is cold weather. When temperatures dip below freezing, it’s possible for the water inside pipes to become so cold that it begins to freeze. Other factors, such as poor insulation and inadequate heating, can also contribute to the freezing of pipes.

Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes

With winter weather upon us, frozen pipes can become a problem if proper precautions aren’t taken. Taking the time to properly insulate your home and pipes can go a long way in preventing them from freezing. Here are some steps to help prevent that:

Insulate the Pipes

Nowadays, it’s easy to find insulation materials specifically designed to keep pipes from freezing. Even if your pipes are already installed, it’s possible to wrap them up in insulation sleeves. The most susceptible pipes are those that run against exterior walls and in unheated areas, such as basements and crawl spaces. You can also buy pipe sleeves for these pipes.

Seal Drafts

The cold air can seep through walls and drafts, so make sure to check your home for any air leaks and seal them with caulk or weather stripping.

Keep the Heat On

If your pipes are exposed to cold temperatures, make sure to leave the heat on in your home. Even if you’re away for an extended period of time, keep your thermostat set at a minimum of 55 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent your pipes from freezing.

Open Cabinet Doors

If you have plumbing inside the kitchen or bathroom cabinets, you should open the doors to allow warm air to reach them.

Let Faucets Drip

Another way to prevent frozen pipes is to let your faucets drip when the weather outside is extremely cold. It will keep the water flowing and prevent it from freezing in the pipes.

Why Shouldn’t You DIY Plumbing Repairs?

You might think you can save money by making plumbing repairs yourself, but there are several reasons why you should leave the job to a professional plumber.

Firstly, DIY plumbing repairs can be dangerous. Without the right tools and knowledge, a seemingly small repair could have unintended consequences such as flooding or an even bigger problem.
Moreover, it can be difficult to identify the source of a plumbing problem without professional experience. A plumber has the right tools and knowledge to quickly diagnose the issue and make a repair that will last.

In addition, some plumbing solutions may require specialized knowledge or tools such as an industrial-grade plunger or a specialized pipe wrench. A professional plumber can ensure a safe job with the right equipment.

What To Do If a Pipe Bursts?

If a pipe bursts in your home, it is important to act quickly. The first step should be to shut off the main water valve immediately.

In most homes, this is located in the basement or utility room. Turning it off will stop any further damage from occurring.

Once the water is shut off, locate the broken pipe and assess the damage. If the pipe is leaking, you might be able to repair it by using a patch kit or replacing the damaged section with a new pipe. However, if the damage is too extensive or you are unsure of how to make the repairs yourself, it is best to call a professional plumber.

Plumbing Services Pomona is a household name for quality plumbing repairs, installations, and maintenance. We offer a responsive 24-hour service.

Call us today, and our experienced team of certified plumbers will be there to help you in the event of an emergency pipe burst.