How to Identify, Thaw, and Prevent Frozen Pipes

Water pipes freezing. The words can make your blood run cold. Frozen pipes are a common winter problem. Here is how to prevent frozen pipes and what to do if pipes freeze.

How to Tell if Your Pipes are Frozen

During a deep freeze, pay particular attention to the possibility of frozen pipes. You may have a problem if only a dribble of water comes out when you turn on the faucet. You might also hear gurgling and banging as ice travels through your pipes. Freezing water expands, creating pressure, so you might see them bulge. Condensation and small surface cracks are also signs that trouble may be on the horizon. Less common is the presence of sewer smells caused by sewer lines freezing.

You’ll need to know what happens if your pipes freeze and how to act fast to prevent a burst pipe. Burst pipes can cause home flooding that can be a catastrophe. Home flooding is one of the most devastating and expensive emergencies you can face.

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