Watch Out for These Signs of a Frozen Pipe in the Home!
The cold months of the year are here, which means it’s time to start thinking about protecting the pipes. Unfortunately, even the best protection doesn’t always work to prevent a frozen pipe in the home. This is why it’s important for homeowners to know the signs that they have a frozen pipe. Spotting the symptoms early is important for preventing extensive and expensive damage to the home. So read on to learn the three major signs of a frozen pipe.
Low or No Water From Faucets
Many people think that a frozen pipe always means a burst pipe. While this is the case much of the time, it’s possible for a pipe to be frozen without bursting. If all or part of the water in a pipe is frozen, it can affect the water flow to the rest of the home. Since the pipes that freeze first are generally the ones coming into the home, this can likely stop water flow into the rest of the house. So the first sign that there’s a frozen pipe is a slow flow of water or no water flow at all.
If an exterior pipe freezes enough to burst the pipe, it will also result in low or no water flow. Any flow that does happen will likely be leaking out where the pipe has burst, which means there won’t be water or water pressure to get flow to the rest of the faucets in the home.
Frosty Pipe
Homeowners that suspect they have a frozen pipe should bundle up and go for a walk around the house. Since exposed pipes are the most likely to freeze, these should be the first ones checked. Performing a visual inspection of these exposed pipes can tell homeowners a lot about whether they’re frozen or not. If the pipe has frost on it, the pipe is likely frozen inside.
If there are no exposed pipes outside the home that are frosty, it’s important to check those in unheated areas of the house, such as the basement or under floors. Preventing frosty pipes with insulation is a good way to keep lines from freezing.
Foul Sewage Smells in the Home
It isn’t only water lines that freeze. It’s also possible to have a frozen sewer line. When this happens, it causes a sewage backup, making the house smell like sewage. If the pipe bursts, it can even cause sewage to leak out into the home, which can be a very unpleasant and expensive problem.
Homeowners who experience a frozen pipe should immediately contact a burst pipe repair service. Even if the pipe isn’t visibly damaged yet, it could still burst. Calling a plumbing company to handle this can also provide homeowners with the opportunity to have their pipes winterized to prevent burst pipes in the future.
About Ed Rike Plumbing, Heating, & Air
Ed Rike Plumbing, Heating, & Air has been proud to serve Dayton, OH, for many years. They provide expert service and tailored options. They also offer a satisfaction guarantee on every job. Contact Ed Rike Plumbing today for burst pipe repair services in Dayton, OH.
