Brandon Brown
What are the Signs of Frozen Pipes?
Worried about frozen pipes in your home? If you turn on a faucet and see only a trickle of water (or none at all), that indicates a big sign that your pipes might be frozen. You may also observe frost on visible pipes or unusual odors emanating from your drains.
When pipes freeze, they can crack or burst, leading to serious water damage. But don’t worry! If you catch it early, you can act to prevent a pipe burst. Here’s what you need to do.
Prevention is key! Before winter comes, cover your pipes with foam insulation. This is important for pipes in unheated areas like your attic, garage, or crawl space.
If your pipes are already frozen, adding insulation after thawing them can help prevent future problems. Our team at Spot On Plumbing has helped many homeowners in Broken Arrow avoid expensive repairs. We do this by properly insulating pipes before freezing weather arrives.
If your pipes are frozen, a space heater can help thaw them safely. Place a small heater near the frozen section, keeping it at a safe distance to avoid fire hazards. Make sure the room is well-ventilated and never leave the heater unattended. This method works well for pipes inside walls or under cabinets.
For exposed pipes, grab a hair dryer and set it to a low or medium heat setting. Slowly wave it along the frozen pipe, starting near the faucet and working your way toward the blockage. Avoid using open flames like a blowtorch because they can damage pipes and create a fire hazard. A simple hair dryer does the trick without the risk.
Cold air sneaking in through gaps and cracks can lead to frozen pipes. Check around your home for drafts near plumbing, especially in basements and under sinks. Use caulk or spray foam to seal any openings. This will keep your home warmer and protect your pipes from freezing in the future.
If a frozen pipe bursts, shut off your water supply immediately to prevent flooding. Locate your main shut-off valve, it’s usually near your water meter or where the main line enters your home. If you’re not sure where it is, ask your local Broken Arrow plumber to show you. Acting fast can save your home from major water damage and costly repairs.
If you can’t find the frozen section, your pipes are still frozen, or you think a pipe has burst, call an emergency plumber. Spot On Plumbing is here to help Broken Arrow homeowners with fast, reliable service when you need it most. Don’t wait, give us a call before things get worse!
Since 2017, Spot On Plumbing has been serving Broken Arrow and Tulsa homeowners with expert plumbing services. Whether it’s a frozen pipe, a slab leak, or a water heater issue, we’re here to help. Plus, our mascot Piper loves making sure your home stays safe and warm! Call us today for all your plumbing needs.