When temperatures drop suddenly, frozen pipes become one of the most common winter plumbing emergencies. At Performance Plumbing, we know how stressful it can feel to turn on a faucet and find only a trickle—or no water at all. Frozen pipes not only interrupt your daily routine but can also lead to burst pipes and significant water damage if not handled quickly and safely. Knowing what to watch for and what steps to take can help protect your home and minimize damage during freezing weather.
How to Tell If Your Pipes Are Frozen
Frozen pipes don’t always burst immediately. In fact, the warning signs often appear before any serious damage occurs. Homeowners usually notice:
• Little to no water coming from faucets
• Frost or icy buildup on exposed pipes
• Unusual noises when fixtures are turned on
• Sudden drops in water pressure
If your home experiences any of these problems during cold weather, there’s a strong chance ice has formed inside your plumbing lines.
Act Quickly and Safely
When you suspect a frozen pipe, acting fast is important. However, it’s just as important to avoid risky or unsafe methods. Never attempt to use open flames or high-heat tools on your plumbing. These methods are extremely dangerous and often cause more harm than good.
Your best first step is to turn off the main water line. This helps prevent pressure buildup that can lead to a burst pipe. Next, call a licensed professional who can safely locate the frozen section and thaw it using proper equipment and techniques. Addressing the issue quickly can make a significant difference in preventing leaks or long-term water damage.
Prevention Is the Best Protection
While frozen pipes can happen even in well-maintained homes, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk during cold spells. Simple habits such as keeping cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate, letting a small stream of water run on extremely cold nights, or maintaining consistent home heating can make a big difference.
If your home has had freezing issues in the past, it may be worth having a professional evaluate your insulation or plumbing layout. Performance Plumbing can help you identify vulnerable areas and recommend improvements to protect your pipes in the long term.
When to Call a Professional
If you cannot locate the frozen area, if a pipe has already burst, or if your water remains off after temperatures warm up, it’s time to call in a plumbing expert. Frozen pipes can be unpredictable, and professional equipment ensures the job is handled safely and effectively.
Trying to fix a frozen pipe on your own may seem appealing, but using the wrong methods often causes further damage and higher repair costs. Our professional plumbers not only fix the immediate issue but can also evaluate your system to prevent future problems.
Contact Performance Plumbing today to schedule fast, reliable service from trusted professionals. Your comfort and your home’s safety are always our priority.