Frozen Water Pipes

With freezing temperatures, there is a good chance that unprotected water pipes will freeze. If you turn on a faucet and get no water, your pipes may freeze. When this happens, you may experience the annoyance of interrupted water service until the water in the pipe thaws. Unfortunately, for a few, the water line may rupture, cause property damage, and require plumbing repairs. Click here to learn more about how Flo by Moen freeze sensors can prevent flooding if your pipes do freeze.

What should I do if my pipes freeze?

The sooner the problem is recognized, the better chance that damage will be minimized. If frozen pipes do occur, Brothers Plumbing, Heating and Electric can thaw those pipes. We don’t use torches for thawing, so there is no risk of fire from an open flame. We thaw the pipes safely, using electric thawing machines (for metal pipes only) so that there is no damage to the wall or ceiling from an open flame. Brothers technicians will be there when you need them. Coming with fully stocked trucks to immediately repair the broken line to further minimize damage.

If you want to attempt to do it yourself, there are some helpful tips that you can follow to help thaw them on your own. Some dos and don’ts for thawing frozen pipes include:

• Use a heating pad, hairdryer, or towels soaked in hot water to gently thaw the frozen section of the pipe.
• Never use an open flame like a torch or direct heat on the pipe as it may cause damage or a fire hazard.
• If you cannot locate the frozen area, or if the pipe has burst, shut off the water supply immediately and contact a professional plumber.
• If you do not have water for an extended period of time, special attention should be given to hot water heaters and boilers.

What Should I Do If My Pipes Freeze AND BREAK?

If a water pipe bursts, turn off the water at the main shut-off valve (usually at the water meter or where the main line enters the house); leave the faucet(s). Open until repairs are completed; Call Brothers and we will send a qualified technician to fix the pipe.

Where Are My Shutoff Valves?

There are two major shutoff valves in line with your service. The first valve, called a curb stop, is generally located near the property line, and is normally housed by a cylinder with a cap on it called the curb box. The other major valve is in the home next to the water meter. Other valves may be near plumbing appliances such as sinks and toilets. Brothers can label these shut-off valves for you at no charge on any of our visits to your home so you can easily locate them in an emergency.

Also, keeping your main valve in good working condition will assure you that you will be able to turn your water off in the event of an emergency, in case one of your water pipes breaks, for example. Older-style gate valves should be turned periodically due to possible corrosion build-up. Newer Teflon-coated ball valves should stay in working order without any regular turning.

Prevention Is Key

When it comes to frozen pipes, prevention is key. However, knowing what to do if yours freeze or burst is vital. If you’re facing any issues or have frozen pipe concerens, then please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Brothers Plumbing Heating & Electric. We’re always standing by to help you out!

FAQs

1. What are the signs that my pipes are frozen?

If you turn on a faucet and no water comes out, or only a small trickle flows, your water pipes may be frozen.

2. What should I do immediately if my pipes freeze?

Use safe heating methods such as a hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in hot water to gently thaw the pipe. Never use an open flame or torch.

3. Can I thaw frozen pipes myself?

Yes, but with caution. If you cannot locate the frozen area or the pipe has burst, shut off the water supply immediately and call a professional plumber like Brothers Plumbing, Heating & Electric.

4. What should I do if my pipes freeze and burst?

Turn off the water at the main shut-off valve, open nearby faucets to relieve pressure, and call Brothers Plumbing Heating & Electric for immediate repair.

5. Where are my home’s main shut-off valves located?

One valve is usually located outside near the property line (curb stop), while another is found inside near the water meter. Additional shut-offs may be located near appliances such as sinks or toilets.

6. Can Brothers help me locate my shut-off valves?

Yes. Our technicians can label your shut-off valves at no charge during any service visit so you can quickly find them in an emergency.

7. Why shouldn’t I use a torch or open flame to thaw frozen pipes?

Using a torch is extremely dangerous and can cause fire hazards, wall or ceiling damage, and pipe failure. Safe alternatives like heating pads or blow dryers are recommended.

8. How can I prevent my pipes from freezing?

Keep pipes insulated, maintain indoor heat during freezing weather, and install freeze sensors like Flo by Moen to help detect freezing conditions before damage occurs.