How Do I Know if My Pipes Are Frozen?

Frozen pipes can be more than just an inconvenience. They can lead to serious plumbing troubles throughout your entire home. If your pipes are frozen, they need to be carefully thawed before they burst.

However, it can be hard to tell if your pipes are frozen or not. It’s crucial to know what’s going on so you can get the repairs you need. In this blog, we’ll discuss common signs of frozen pipes, what you can do if your pipes are frozen, and when to call a plumber for assistance.

Three Signs of Frozen Pipes

When pipes freeze, the plumbing system will act differently than it does when the pipes are in good condition. Just a few clear signs that you have frozen pipes include:

• No water flow: If you turn on a faucet and barely any water comes out, your pipes may be frozen. This is a clear sign of problems with the piping, especially during the winter months.
• Frost on the pipes: Visible ice and frost on the pipes outside your home are signals they may be frozen inside. Check the pipes in unheated areas like basements or garages to see if this problem is present.
• Strange sounds: Whistling, gurgling, and banging sounds when you turn on a faucet might mean ice is blocking the line. These sounds occur when water struggles to flow through the piping.

Don’t ignore the signs of seriously frozen pipes. Make sure to have your pipes repaired by an expert.

What To Do if Your Pipes Are Frozen

As a homeowner, there are many steps you can take to deal with frozen pipes safely. Find the frozen section of your piping, often found in unheated areas such as exterior walls, basements, or attics. Try opening the faucet connected to a suspected frozen pipe to relieve pressure and check the water flow. Carefully wrap the frozen pipe in a warm towel, apply a hairdryer on low, or place a space heater nearby. Don’t use open flames or high-heat devices, as these can cause more harm than good.

If these tips don’t resolve the issue, or if a pipe has already burst, it’s time to call a plumber for help. A professional can find hidden frozen sections of piping and safely thaw or repair the pipes. Be sure to have a pro handle the situation quickly, as waiting days could lead to permanent plumbing damage. Plumbers can also help you avoid future problems by insulating vulnerable pipes and providing tips on how to handle freezing weather in the future.

When To Call for Professional Pipe Repairs

If you try to thaw out your pipes and nothing works, or if you can’t find the frozen section, it’s best to call a plumber to handle the job. A professional will have the tools and training needed to safely address the issue without causing further plumbing damage.

If you’re not sure where to begin with resolving the issue on your own, don’t take chances doing it yourself. Working with an expert plumber is the best way to ensure that your pipes are thawed correctly and completely.

Let Church Plumbing Help With Your Frozen Pipes

Since 1984, the team at Church Plumbing & Heating has been delivering top-tier plumbing, heating, and cooling services in the Michiana area. We offer upfront pricing, special discounts, and financing options for our services. Count on our certified experts to get your plumbing system working like new.

Take good care of your plumbing, especially when any of your pipes freeze. Contact Church Plumbing today to schedule frozen and burst pipe repairs in Elkhart or nearby areas.