When you combine cold weather with water, your pipes may freeze during the winter. When water freezes, it expands. This can cause a lot of pressure to build up inside pipes, which are not designed to withstand the expansion of freezing water. When the pressure becomes too great, the pipes can burst, leading to water damage in your home and costly repairs. You can take many actions to prevent your pipes from freezing in the winter cold.

If you suspect that your pipes may be frozen, there are a few signs you can look for. First, check the temperature of the pipes by feeling them with your hand. If they are cold to the touch, they may be frozen. You can also listen for a hissing or whistling sound, which may be a sign that there is trapped air or water in the frozen section of the pipe. Finally, look for any signs of water damage, such as discoloration or warping on the walls or floor near the pipes. If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to thaw your pipes as soon as possible to prevent them from bursting.

There are a few steps you can take to prevent your pipes from freezing:

Keep your thermostat at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you’re not home. This will help keep your pipes warm enough to prevent freezing.
Insulate any exposed pipes in your home. This can be done using pre-formed foam pipe insulation or wrapping the pipes in insulation tape.
If you have pipes that run along an exterior wall or through an unheated space, consider wrapping them in heat tape or installing pipe sleeves to help keep them warm.
Let cold water drip from your faucets during freezing weather. This can help prevent your pipes from freezing by allowing a small amount of water to flow through them constantly.
Keep your garage door closed if there are pipes inside. This will help keep the space warm and prevent freezing.

If you think your pipes may have frozen, it’s vital to take action quickly to thaw them before they burst.

Here are a few steps you can take:

It’s important to not let a situation like this potentially become worse from neglect. As soon as you suspect your pipes may have frozen, call the professionals at Lion Home Service no matter the hour at (970) 551-6987.
Apply heat to the pipes using a hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in hot water. You can also use a space heater to warm the area around the pipes.
Slowly turn on the faucet connected to the frozen pipe. As the water begins to thaw, it will start to flow through the pipe and help to melt any remaining ice.

Never use an open flame, such as a blowtorch or a candle, to thaw frozen pipes. This can be extremely dangerous and can easily cause a fire. Always use an electric heating device designed for thawing pipes, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The safest and most efficient way to deal with frozen pipes is to contact your friends at Lion’s Plumbing & Drains and have one of our trained professionals alleviate the situation.