Frozen pipes might not be on your radar—until they happen. And when they do, the feeling can be overwhelming: no water, skyrocketing repair costs, and the risk of extensive home damage.
Frozen pipes are one of the most common wintertime problems for homeowners in the Tacoma area. When temperatures drop, water inside your pipes can freeze, expand, and potentially cause serious damage. Understanding how to recognize and prevent frozen pipes can save you from the stress and expense of dealing with burst pipes and water damage.
This month, Bob Larson Plumbing will explore the common signs of frozen pipes, what to do if your pipes are frozen, and let you know when it’s time to call a reliable plumber for help.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Big Deal
When water freezes, it expands. If it’s trapped in your pipes, this expansion can create enough pressure to crack or burst them. The result? Water leaks or even major flooding when the ice melts. For many Tacoma homes—especially older ones or houses with exposed plumbing—this risk is higher during unexpected freezes.
The financial toll can be significant, too. Repairs, water damage restoration, and the disruption to your daily life can add up quickly. Plus, while insurance might cover some costs, you could still face deductibles and premium increases.
The good news is that frozen pipes are avoidable, and catching them early can minimize damage.
How to Tell if Your Pipes Are Frozen
Spotting frozen pipes early is key to preventing a disaster. Here are the most common signs to watch for:
- No Water or Reduced Flow: If you turn on a faucet and nothing comes out—or the water flow is just a trickle—frozen pipes might be the problem.
- Unusual Smells: Odd odors coming from drains or faucets could mean ice is blocking normal water flow and trapping air in your pipes.
- Frost on the Pipes: Frost buildup on exposed pipes is a clear sign that the water inside has started freezing.
- Bulging Pipes: A swollen or misshapen pipe can indicate that ice has expanded inside.
- Strange Noises: If you hear banging, creaking, or whistling when you turn on the water, it could be a sign of frozen pipes or trapped air.
Not all frozen pipes are easy to spot. Some may be hidden behind walls or in areas you rarely check, like crawl spaces or attics.
How to Check for Frozen Pipes Around Your Home
A quick inspection can help you pinpoint potential trouble spots:
- Under Sinks and in Basements: Look for frost or dampness on exposed pipes. Feel them to check if they’re unusually cold.
- Behind Walls or Under Floors: Test water flow from faucets and feel for cold spots along walls or floors where pipes might run.
- Outside: Inspect outdoor spigots and pipes for ice buildup or leaks. Disconnect and store garden hoses to prevent freezing.
- In Attics and Crawl Spaces: Use a flashlight to check for frost or water damage around pipes in these less-visible areas.
If you suspect a frozen pipe but can’t locate it, or if you’re unsure what to do next, it’s time to call in a professional.
Easy Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath of a frozen pipe. Here are simple steps you can take to protect your plumbing:
- Wrap Exposed Pipes: Use pipe insulation or heat tape on pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces.
- Seal Gaps: Close off any openings where cold air might sneak in around pipes, like gaps in walls or floors.
- Keep the Heat On: Maintain your home’s temperature at 55°F or higher, even when you’re away.
- Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks, especially those along exterior walls.
- Let Faucets Drip: Running a slow trickle of water can prevent pipes from freezing by keeping the water moving.
- Disconnect Hoses: Drain and store outdoor hoses, and shut off water supply lines to outside faucets.
- Add Insulation: Improve insulation in your attic or basement to keep temperatures stable near your pipes.
A little effort now can save you from the stress and cost of frozen pipes later.
When to Call a Plumber
Sometimes, even with your best efforts, frozen pipes happen. Here’s when you should call a plumber:
- You can’t find the frozen section or thaw it yourself.
- A pipe has already burst. Turn off your main water valve and call a plumber immediately.
- Several pipes are frozen, indicating a bigger problem.
- The pipes are in hard-to-reach places like walls or floors.
- Your home has an older plumbing system that needs extra care.
Attempting to thaw pipes yourself can sometimes cause more harm than good. A professional plumber will have the tools and expertise to fix the problem safely.
Why Tacoma Homeowners Trust Bob Larson Plumbing
If you’re facing frozen pipes or any other plumbing issue, Bob Larson Plumbing is here to help. Serving Tacoma for years, we always provide quality work and dependable service.
When winter brings its worst, you can always expect the best from Bob Larson.
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Plumbing Emergency? Contact Bob Larson Plumbing Today!
When plumbing problems strike, you need a team you can trust to deliver fast, reliable solutions. At Bob Larson Plumbing, we provide top-notch service to homeowners in Tacoma, WA.
Whether you’re dealing with frozen pipes, a leaky faucet, or a more complex plumbing issue, our experienced plumbers are here to help. Don’t let small issues turn into costly repairs—reach out today to schedule your service and experience the Bob Larson Plumbing difference!
Contact us online or call us at (253) 400-1615 to schedule your service and ensure your home is ready for the winter season!
