What to Do if You Have Frozen Pipes

If you’re like a lot of homeowners, you worry about frozen pipes. Even if you’ve never had one, you’ve probably heard nightmare stories. 

In reality, frozen pipes are often easy to deal with and they don’t always cause major damage to your home. Here’s what you need to know in case your pipes freeze. 

You’ll know the pipes are frozen because one or more of your faucets will stop working. Turn the water off, then try to find the frozen pipe. You’ll want to look anyplace where pipes are exposed to outside air without insulation. This can include attics, basements, garages, etc. The pipe will likely have condensation or even ice around the frozen part. 

Decide Whether to Thaw or Wait

Most pipes will thaw on their own as the weather warms up. If it’s getting warmer soon, it may not be worth unfreezing the pipe manually. Instead, just wait. You will want to watch the pipe to see if it leaks after it thaws. If it does, then it’s time to replace that section of pipe.

If you need the pipe unfrozen quickly or it’s not thawing on its own, then it’s probably time to manually thaw it. 

How to Thaw Your Frozen Pipes

You can turn up the heat in your house or set up a space heater near the pipe. Aim the heater at the pipe but keep it several feet from it to avoid inadvertent damage. You can also purchase heat tape. This either plugs in or is self-heating. You wrap it around the frozen pipe, start the heating process, and wait. 

Working With Frozen Pipes Underground

If you suspect a frozen pipe underground, it’s time to call in a plumber. At Rowell’s, we have the expertise you need on your side when these pipes freeze. We’ll find the frozen section, then determine the best way to thaw it for you. Before you know it, your frozen pipe problem will be a thing of the past!

Call Rowell’s whenever you have questions about frozen pipes!