When temperatures drop in Broken Arrow, frozen pipes become a real problem for homeowners. But why do frozen pipes burst? And what can you do to prevent costly damage? Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can protect your home this winter.
Why Do Frozen Pipes Burst?
Mitchell Coates
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
Water expands when it freezes. When the water inside your pipes turns to ice, it occupies more space, creating pressure inside the pipe. If the pressure builds up too much, the pipe can crack or burst, leading to leaks and water damage.
This problem often happens in homes with exposed pipes. Common in unheated areas like attics, basements, garages, or outside walls. Even a small crack can lead to a significant leak. This is why it’s important to act quickly to prevent damage.
These signs suggest that your pipes might be frozen. Not sure if your pipes are frozen? Here are some warning signs to watch for:
Little to no water flow – If you turn on the faucet and only a trickle comes out, there may be ice blocking the pipe.
Frost on the pipe – Visible frost is a clear sign that the pipe is too cold.
Strange smells – If you notice a weird smell coming from the drain, it could mean a pipe is partially frozen, trapping odors inside.
Bulging pipe sections – When ice expands inside a pipe, it may cause bulging before it bursts.
Spotting these signs early can help prevent a full-blown frozen pipe burst.
How To Prevent Frozen Pipes
The best way to deal with frozen pipes is to stop them from happening in the first place. Here are a few simple steps to protect your home:
Insulate exposed pipes – Use foam insulation or heat tape to wrap pipes in unheated areas.
Keep cabinets open – If you have pipes under the sink, keep the cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate.
Let faucets drip – Running a slow drip of water from faucets helps relieve pressure and keeps water moving.
Maintain indoor temperatures – Keep your thermostat set at least to 55°F, even if you’re leaving home for a few days.
Seal cracks and gaps – Close up any holes or cracks near pipes to prevent cold air from getting in.
These steps can help prevent a frozen pipe burst and avoid an emergency plumber call in the middle of the night.
What To Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If you suspect a frozen pipe, act fast to prevent it from bursting:
Turn off the main water supply – This helps minimize water damage if the pipe does burst.
Try to locate the frozen area – Look for pipes that are bulging or covered in frost.
Gently warm the pipe – Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels to thaw the pipe slowly. Never use an open flame.
Keep the faucet open – As the ice melts, running water will help clear the blockage.
Call a professional if needed. If you can’t find the frozen pipe or it is leaking, contact a plumber. You can reach out to Spot On Plumbing in Broken Arrow for emergency help.
Dealing With a Frozen Pipe Burst
If your frozen pipe bursts, take these steps immediately:
Shut off the main water valve.
Move valuables and furniture away from the flooded area.
Call an emergency plumber to fix the broken pipe.
Start drying the area with towels, fans, or a wet/dry vacuum to prevent mold.
A burst pipe can cause serious damage fast, so acting quickly is key.
Call Spot On Plumbing for Help
If you’re dealing with frozen pipes, leaks, or pipe condensation, don’t wait until it’s too late. Spot On Plumbing is your go-to Broken Arrow plumber for fast and reliable service. Whether it’s a small fix or a plumbing emergency, we are here to protect your home from water damage. Stay warm, stay ready, and remember that preventing problems is always easier than fixing them!