What to Do if You Suspect Frozen Pipes in Your Home

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

If you have water damage due to a burst pipe, you can count on SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk Counties for assistance.

Having your pipes freeze in your home is more than simply an inconvenience, as it can lead to
serious water damage as well. While frozen pipes are something that many assume can only happen in areas where it gets bitterly cold, the reality is that frozen pipes can happen any time
the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit—and may be more likely to happen to
homes in southern climates, as they are not typically constructed to withstand freezing
temperatures.

The dangerous part of frozen pipes is that they can burst when conditions are right, which leads
to serious damage—in fact, over 23% of homeowners insurance claims are related to this,
according to the Insurance Information Institute. Fortunately, if you know how to act when you
suspect your pipes have frozen, you might be able to prevent this from happening in your home.

Why Pipes Burst if They Become Frozen

Pipes that are frozen do not always burst, but they certainly can if conditions are right. If there is water frozen within the pipe, it blocks any water that is still liquid from flowing.

When this occurs, the pipe can become clogged and have pressure built up, which can
eventually lead to the pipe bursting from the force.

How to Take Action if You Suspect Your Home’s Pipes Have Frozen

Shut off the water. If you notice that the pipes in your home have frozen, the first thing you
should do is to turn off the water. That way, there will be no water entering the pipes from the
main valve, reducing the amount of water that can exit the pipes if they burst.

Thaw the pipes. If a pipe is frozen, it will generally be cold to the touch and have frost built

up on the outside, so it is easy to determine exactly where the frozen spot is. Apply heat to this area, via a hair dryer or heating pad, until the water flow within the pipe is returned to normal.

When in doubt, call a professional. If you do not feel confident thawing your pipes,
professional help may be your best bet. A plumbing service should be able to help you get your pipes thawed quickly and safely.

If you have water damage due to a burst pipe, you can count on us for assistance. Contact us
today to learn more about how our water restoration services work.