If your home’s water suddenly stops flowing this winter, frozen pipes may be to blame. While frozen pipes can be a stressful seasonal headache, acting quickly can prevent catastrophic bursts. Here are a few professional troubleshooting tips to help you safely restore running water and protect your property lines.
What Should I Do If My Pipes Freeze?
Frozen pipes are a hassle, but there are some steps you can take to thaw them.
1. Open Your Faucet
Open the faucet connected to the affected pipe to allow water to flow freely as the pipe thaws.
2. Heat the Frozen Pipe
Apply gentle heat to the frozen pipe. You can use a hairdryer, an electric blanket or a heating pad as a heat source.
3. Be Cautious
Avoid using dangerous high-heat methods, such as a blow torch. Whatever heat source you use, monitor it closely and clear the area of any flammable materials before you get started.
4. Call an Emergency Plumber
Frozen pipes are brittle and easy to damage. Because frozen lines become brittle and highly susceptible to sudden splitting, DIY troubleshooting carries significant risk. If a line cracks or you cannot locate the freeze point, contact our rapid-response emergency plumber service immediately to isolate the leak and minimize structural water damage.
How Do I Prevent Frozen Pipes?
You can prevent frozen pipes with a few easy steps.
1. Let Faucets Drip
When the temperatures drop, allow your faucets to drip. A slight trickle of water may prevent ice from building and obstructing the pipes.
2. Disconnect Exterior Water Lines
Close your outdoor spigot supply valves and drain and disconnect exterior water lines, such as garden hoses. Tuck drained hoses away for safekeeping until warmer weather returns.
3. Add Insulation
You can protect your pipes by adding some insulation to the areas surrounding them. Additionally, seal off any wall gaps or cracks with a weatherproof sealant.
4. Make Some Minor Modifications
Making some adjustments can save you a lot of hassle down the road. Add a lamp with a low-wattage bulb to the areas of concern, always keep your home temperature above 55 degrees Fahrenheit and open your cabinets to allow warmer air to reach the pipes.
Call a Prushko Plumber Sonoma, CA
Need Professional Pipe Repair? If you are currently dealing with a split water line, a failing main shut-off valve, or severe freeze damage, the family team at Prushko Plumbing is standing by. Check out our comprehensive residential plumbing repair services or call our dispatch office directly at (707) 996-1850 for prompt, reliable assistance.
Skip to content