Frozen Pipes Could Be About to Burst and Flood Your Home
Low Water Pressure Or Strange Noises? Frozen Pipes Could Be About To Burst And Flood Your Home
Frozen pipes are one of the most destructive winter plumbing problems that homeowners can face. What may begin as low water pressure or strange noises coming from inside your walls can quickly escalate to burst pipes and major flooding.
In Northeast Ohio, where winter temperatures often drop below freezing, frozen pipes are a serious threat to homeowners and commercial properties. Knowing the early warning signs and taking action quickly can help you avoid thousands of dollars of water damage and emergency plumbing repairs.
Why Frozen Pipes Are So Dangerous
When water freezes, it expands. This puts extreme pressure on the interior of the pipe as well as the pipe’s fittings and joints. Contrary to common belief, pipes rarely burst open at the frozen section itself. The pipes are more likely to rupture a short distance away from the ice blockage.
Homes and businesses throughout Akron, Barberton, Kent, Alliance, Massillon, and other parts of Northeast Ohio are at risk when the weather drops below freezing for long periods of time or overnight.
When a frozen pipe bursts, it can send hundreds of gallons of water into your property in a matter of minutes or even seconds, damaging flooring, walls, ceilings, and personal belongings.
Common Warning Signs Of Frozen Pipes
Here are some of the most common warning signs that frozen pipes may be in your home:
Low Or No Water Pressure
One of the first signs of frozen pipes is a reduced flow of water. If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, or if no water comes out at all, the pipe may be frozen with an ice blockage.
Strange Noises In The Walls Or Ceilings
Whistling, banging, or gurgling noises may come from your walls or ceilings if water is trying to move past an ice blockage in a pipe. These types of sounds are a strong indication that your pipes are under significant stress.
Visible Frost On Pipes
Exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, garages, or under sinks may show visible frost or condensation on the exterior. If so, freezing has likely already started inside the pipe.
Unusual Odors From Drains
A frozen or blocked pipe may be unable to allow sewer gases to vent properly. When this happens, an unpleasant odor may be noticeable coming from your drains.
Why Frozen Pipes Are Common In Northeast Ohio
There are several reasons that frozen pipes are common in Northeast Ohio:
- Prolonged periods of below-freezing temperatures
- A sudden overnight temperature drop
- Older homes with poorly insulated pipes
- Unheated spaces like garages, basements, and crawl spaces
- Strong winter winds can speed up heat loss
In addition, older homes throughout Northeast Ohio are especially vulnerable to frozen pipes. Aging plumbing combined with inadequate insulation makes pipes more likely to freeze.
Why Ignoring Frozen Pipe Warning Signs Is Risky
Many homeowners don’t call a plumber about frozen pipes right away, hoping they will thaw out by themselves. Waiting to have frozen pipes checked is usually a mistake. The expansion and contraction of ice puts stress on the pipe walls. When temperatures rise, the pipe may burst as water pressure builds once again.
Failure to act on early warning signs can result in:
- Severe interior water damage
- Mold and mildew from standing water
- Drywall, flooring, and insulation damage
- Emergency plumbing and restoration services that can be very expensive
Flooding caused by burst pipes is one of the most expensive and frustrating winter plumbing disasters that homeowners have to deal with.
What To Do If You Suspect Frozen Pipes
If you suspect that one or more pipes are frozen, it is important to take action as soon as possible:
- Turn off the main water valve in your home to avoid more flooding
- Open all the faucets in your home to relieve pressure
- Don’t use open flames or high heat to thaw pipes
- Contact a professional plumber right away to safely thaw your pipes and inspect for hidden damage
Attempting to thaw frozen pipes by yourself can make the situation worse or even create safety hazards.
Superior Drainage offers emergency plumbing and drain services throughout Northeast Ohio. We can find your frozen pipes, safely restore water flow, and thoroughly inspect pipes for hidden damage before a burst occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frozen Pipes
What are the first signs of frozen pipes?
Low water pressure, strange noises coming from walls, visible frost on pipes, and strange drain odors are common early warning signs of frozen pipes.
Can frozen pipes burst without warning?
Yes. Frozen pipes can burst without warning when pressure builds up or if ice starts to melt and water flow is restored.
Are frozen pipes an emergency?
Yes. Frozen pipes can burst at any time. Frozen pipes are a plumbing emergency.
Which pipes freeze most often?
Pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls are the most likely to freeze.
Should I try to thaw frozen pipes myself?
Thawing frozen pipes without the proper knowledge can cause more damage to the pipe or even cause injury. Professional service is the safest option.
