Frozen pipes are one of the worst problems your plumbing system can face. Not only do frozen pipes interfere with your access to running water, they can also burst if enough pressure builds up, causing extreme property damage. While you might assume that frozen pipes are only an issue in parts of the country where temperatures frequently reach freezing levels, this is not necessarily the case. In fact, homes in areas that do not experience extreme temperatures are sometimes even more vulnerable to this issue, as they often do not have proper insulation around piping to prevent it from freezing. Keep reading to learn our top 5 signs of frozen pipes to watch out for this winter, and make sure to call our experienced Redding plumbers at Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for pipe repair and more.
The Top 5 Frozen Pipe Signs to Watch Out for This Winter:
- Visible Frost or Moisture: With pipes that are exposed, you may be able to see whether there is frost or condensation on them in the wintertime. If you find this is the case, you should think twice before turning on the faucet. One pipe that is wet or has frost on it is a sign others may be experiencing the same problem, so check to see if this is the case. Once you have done this, turn off the water supply in the area where any frozen pipes are. Then, turn on your faucets to let out some pressure. You may also want to wrap a warm towel or heating pad around the pipes in question. If a pipe is wet/frosty and bulging, it may be close to bursting, in which case you should call a trained plumber ASAP.
- A Lack of Running Water: If water has stopped coming out of your faucet entirely, a frozen pipe could be the culprit. You should trace the faucet to see if the attached pipe is bulging or covered in frost/moisture. If it is, you can try one of the methods mentioned above to unfreeze it. If it is not wet or cold, you should contact your local municipality to see if there is an issue with your water supply. Either way, it’s a good idea to call a plumber, as a lack of running water is a huge problem for any plumbing system.
- Strange Smells: Sewage odors coming from your drains, sinks, toilets, or other openings in your plumbing system may indicate there is a crack or leak deep in your pipes. While the damage could also be caused by an obstruction, you should call a plumber if your system is emitting strange smells regardless, as they will be able to tell you whether your pipe has broken because of freezing or for another reason.
- Strange Sounds: Whistling, banging, crashing, and bubbling noises are all signs there’s something wrong with your pipes. These sounds may be occurring because there is increased pressure on your piping, and air is having trouble escaping. If your pipes are making strange sounds during the winter in particular, frozen pipes are often to blame.
- Wet Spots: When your pipes start to freeze, they may begin to leak water on parts of your property where water definitely should not be. In your house, you will want to look out for wet rings on walls or ceilings. Damp drywall in general is a major indicator there is a problem with your pipes. Outside, you should look for puddles where water doesn’t normally accumulate, as this type of sinkhole often indicates there is a problem with an underground line.
To help protect your home from frozen pipes this winter, dial (703) 457-8676 now, or contact us online.