Frozen Pipe Emergency: First 5 Steps
When a pipe freezes in your Lancaster, PA, home, they pose a major risk of damage and plumbing problems. From water damage to a lack of clean water, our team at Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical can help with every aspect of frozen pipes. We’re also here to provide you with the first five steps you should take when you experience a frozen pipe emergency. These simple tips can help you avoid a plumbing emergency during the cold winter months.
What Happens When Pipes Freeze
Water that is inside your pipes will freeze when temperatures are cold enough. When water freezes, it expands. This expansion can cause pressure on your pipes, leading to cracks, holes, or even a burst pipe. While the issue may not be immediately noticeable, substantial water damage will occur once the pipes thaw and water flows out.
You may also notice a disruption in water flow when you have a frozen pipe. This can include a complete stoppage of water flow or a minor change in pressure. You may experience a clog somewhere in your pipes because of ice formation paired with the presence of debris or mineral deposits.
How Cold Does It Have to Be for Pipes to Freeze?
Pipes can begin to freeze once the temperature in that area is 32 degrees Fahrenheit. In some cases, the interior temperature of your home may be much warmer. However, a draft or exposure to cold exterior walls can allow the area around your pipes to become much cooler. The risk of frozen pipes increases when there is a lack of insulation in your home or around your pipes. If you are leaving your home for an extended period, don’t set your thermostat below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Signs You Have Frozen Pipes
There are many signs to watch out for that indicate you could be dealing with frozen pipes, including:
- Ice or frost forming on pipe exteriors
- Bulging pipes
- Disruption in water flow or pipes that “spit” or seem to have air in them when running
- Burst pipes
If you notice any of these issues, contact a professional right away. In many cases, you can prevent damage with prompt assistance.
What to Do When Your Pipes Are Frozen
If you experience a frozen pipe in your home, there are five key steps to take to minimize damage. Reach out to our team right away for assistance. Our goal is to get your plumbing system functioning again, safely and efficiently.
1. Turn Off the Main Shutoff Valve
Before you experience a frozen pipe or plumbing emergency, make sure you know where your main shutoff valve is located. In most homes, this valve will be in the basement or crawl space. It is usually near where your main water line enters the home. Turning off this valve will disrupt the flow of water through your pipes, minimizing water damage.
2. Open All Your Fixtures and Faucets
Once you have turned off your water valve, go around your home and open various fixtures and faucets. This will allow remaining water to drain out while also relieving pressure inside your pipes. If there is a frozen area, this process helps reduce the risk of a burst pipe.
3. Applying Gentle Heat
You can apply gentle heat to the area of your plumbing system that is experiencing ice formation. This includes the use of a hairdryer, warm towels, or heat tape. Unfortunately, you may not know exactly where the ice is located. In this scenario, a professional can help determine the location of the problem and come up with a plan of action. Keep in mind that you never want to use excessive heat on your pipes. This includes blow torches or open flames, both of which pose a risk of fire and pipe damage.
4. Call for Professional Help
Continue monitoring the situation, looking for signs of water leaks or damage. Reach out to our team for professional support right away. We are available for emergency appointments and can quickly locate the frozen pipe and take steps to mitigate any damage. In addition to thawing the pipe, we will inspect it for cracks and leaks. Our team is experienced and knowledgeable, and we can determine the areas of your plumbing system that are at risk of freezing and what can be done to prevent recurrences.
5. Document Existing Damage
Take photos of the frozen pipe and any areas of your home that have experienced damage because of a leak. This documentation will be necessary if you need to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance provider. We can also provide you with documentation of our inspection, findings, and repairs that were completed.
Using these five steps when you have a frozen pipe emergency can help minimize damage. Professional support is beneficial for preventing future issues.
When to Call for Plumbing Repair
When you detect a frozen pipe or plumbing problems, calling a professional plumber can help prevent damage. This can also get you back on track so that your plumbing system is working again. If you have a complete lack of water, you may have ice forming or a blockage that requires professional support. Lack of water pressure can impact your ability to use your appliances and fixtures. Visible signs of water damage, like stains on ceilings or walls, indicate you have a leak that requires immediate intervention.
Foul odors coming from your drains and fixtures can indicate there is a blockage somewhere in your plumbing system. This can be the result of ice formation or debris buildup. Either way, professional attention can remove the blockage, thaw the frozen pipe, and prevent further damage.
If your home’s plumbing system is old, it may benefit from modifications, maintenance, or repairs. A plumbing inspection can determine where your high-risk areas are located. Steps can be taken to prevent frozen pipes, such as adding insulation or installing heat tape. We also advise taking precautions on frigid days or during inclement weather. This includes opening cabinets to allow warm air to flow around pipes. Also, consider using a space heater for areas of your plumbing that are at risk of freezing. Just make sure that you monitor the use of these heaters to minimize the risk of fire. Lastly, let water trickle out of fixtures in high-risk areas, especially sinks or tubs with pipes on outside walls. This steady flow of water, although it may be minimal, will help prevent ice from forming.
Call Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical for Frozen Pipe Repair
Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical when you suspect you have a frozen pipe in your home. We can also help with other aspects of plumbing maintenance, leak detection, and repairs.
Reach out to us at Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical today to find out more or to schedule an appointment.
