What to Do When Your Pipes Freeze This Winter

Winter in Northern Colorado brings beautiful snow, but it can also bring the unwelcome surprise of frozen pipes. That moment when you turn on a faucet and nothing comes out can be stressful for any homeowner. Don’t worry, our team at Sutherlands is here to help you handle the situation calmly and safely. A frozen pipe is a problem you can often solve yourself with the right steps.           

1. Locate the Frozen Pipe

Start by checking all the faucets in your home. If only one isn’t working, the frozen section is likely in the pipe leading directly to it. These are often found in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, or along exterior walls. A visible sign can be frost on the outside of the pipe. If no water flows anywhere in your house, the problem might be closer to where the main water line enters your home.

2. Open the Faucet

Once you’ve found the problem area, open the faucet connected to the frozen pipe, for both hot and cold. This relieves pressure in the system and allows water to flow as the ice plug begins to melt, helping to flush the rest of the blockage.

3. Gently Warm the Pipe

Now, it’s time to apply gentle heat to the frozen section. There are a few safe ways to do this:

• Wrap the pipe with towels soaked in hot water.
• Use a hairdryer on a low setting, moving it back and forth along the frozen area.
• Place a portable space heater nearby, ensuring it’s at a safe distance and not directly touching any materials.

What NOT to do: Never use an open flame like a propane torch or a lighter. This is a serious fire hazard and can damage your pipes. Avoid using high-heat devices directly on pipes as they can warp or crack.

4. Check for Leaks as It Thaws

As the pipe thaws, keep a close watch for any drips or leaks. A small drip can quickly turn into a major problem. If you notice a leak, immediately turn off your home’s main water supply. The main shutoff valve is usually located in a basement, crawl space, or utility closet. If you suspect a burst pipe, it’s best to call a professional plumber right away.

How To Help Prevent Frozen Pipes

The best way to deal with frozen pipes is to prevent them from freezing in the first place. Here’s a simple checklist to protect your home before the next cold snap:

• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use pipe sleeves or insulation to wrap pipes in unheated areas.
• Use Heat Tape: For pipes that are consistently problematic, consider installing heat tape with a built-in thermostat.
• Seal Drafts: Look for and seal any cracks or openings near pipes to keep cold air out.
• Open Cabinet Doors: On very cold nights, open the cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes.
• Let a Faucet Drip: Allowing a slow, steady drip from a faucet can be enough to prevent a freeze.
• Maintain Your Thermostat: Keep your home’s temperature at 55°F or higher, even when you’re away.

How to Deal With Water Damage After a Leak

Even with your best efforts, frozen pipes can sometimes lead to leaks or water damage. If you find yourself in that situation, our team at Sutherlands can help you replace damaged materials and bring your space back to life with quality options, including: 

Winter weather shouldn’t cause you stress. With a little preparation and a calm approach, you can keep your home safe and sound. If you need guidance or want to replace damaged materials, stop by Sutherlands! Our team is always here to help you protect your home this season.