What To Do if Your Pipes Freeze: A Texas Homeowner’s Guide
If there’s one thing that the Great Texas Freeze of 2021 taught residents, it’s that not even the Lone Star State is immune to the consequences of severe winter weather. One of the biggest concerns when temperatures drop below freezing is the potential for pipes to freeze. Frozen pipes can cause pressure to build within your system, causing severe water damage to your property.
Below, the plumbing experts at Primo Plumbing, Inc. explain what Texas homeowners should do if their pipes freeze during a sudden cold snap.
Immediate Steps To Take When Pipes Freeze
When you suspect your pipes have frozen, fast action is the key to mitigating potential plumbing disasters. By following the steps below, you can minimize potential damage and get your system back in working order quickly:
- Turn off the water supply.
- Open faucets to relieve pressure in your pipes.
- Gradually warm affected pipes using a hairdryer, heating pads, or towels soaked in warm water.
Things To Avoid When Your Pipes Freeze
When you discover frozen pipes in your home, it’s important to know what common mistakes to avoid that could cause further damage. Never use an open flame, such as a blowtorch or lighter, to thaw pipes, as this can pose a significant fire hazard and can damage the pipe material. Avoid striking or applying excessive force to the frozen pipe, as this can lead to cracks or bursts.
Additionally, refrain from running hot water through the pipe immediately, as the sudden temperature change may worsen the damage. Instead, focus on gradually warming the area using the methods outlines above, and consider calling a professional plumber for safe, effective assistance.
Preventing Frozen Pipes in the Future
The best way to protect your home from the threat of a frozen pipe is to keep it from happening in the first place. By using the following strategies, you can prevent pipes from freezing when the next cold snap occurs:
- Insulate pipes: Install pipe insulation or wrap exposed pipes in heat tape, especially in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, or garages.
- Seal drafts: Seal any gaps or cracks in walls, floors, and around windows or doors to keep cold air from reaching pipes.
- Drip faucets: Allow a small trickle of water to flow from faucets during extreme cold to keep water moving and reduce pressure buildup in pipes.
- Consistent temperatures: Keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature (at least 55º F) even when you’re away to prevent freezing conditions indoors.
- Open cabinets: Keep cabinet doors under sinks open to encourage warm air to circulate around pipes, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
When To Call a Plumber for Frozen Pipe Repair
Understanding when it’s time to call in the professionals for help is the key to preventing catastrophic damage to your property. If the troubleshooting methods above didn’t help relieve the problem, consider contacting a plumber for repair, especially if you experience:
- No water flow: If no water comes out of your faucets, it could indicate a complete blockage due to a frozen pipe that needs professional attention.
- Visible pipe damage: Cracks, bulges, or leaks in the pipe are signs of significant damage that require immediate repair to prevent further issues.
- Unusual, loud noises: Banging, clanking, or gurgling sounds when you turn on the faucet could indicate pressure buildup or damage in the frozen pipe.
- Persistent freezing issues: If the same pipe freezes repeatedly despite your efforts to thaw it, a plumber can assess and implement long-term solutions.
- Excessive water damage: Any sign of water pooling, damp walls, or ceilings suggests a burst pipe, requiring urgent professional repair to mitigate further damage.
Schedule Emergency Plumbing Services in San Antonio Today
If you’re dealing with frozen pipes in your Texas home, look no further than the Primo Plumbing, Inc. team to resolve the problem quickly and efficiently. With 100% satisfaction guaranteed and over 50 years of local service experience, we’ll deliver the fast, effective frozen pipe repair solutions you need to regain total functionality in no time.
Book emergency plumbing repair in Texas by calling our team today.
