What to Do if Pipes Are Frozen: Quick Tips to Prevent Costly Damage

When winter hits, many homeowners feel safe until one cold night when no water comes from the tap. Frozen pipes can cause serious issues. In  2024, Vancouver area insurers saw a 191 percent jump in frozen-pipe claims compared to the same time a year before. That rise shows how fast a cold snap can turn into costly damage.

So, what to do if pipes are frozen? Frozen lines can burst and destroy belongings in no time so you will need some quick and simple steps to resolve the problem. You will also need a trusted team like Lew Plumbing on speed dial. 

In this blog, Lew Plumbing covers how to spot frozen pipes and how to winterize your system to prevent this risk in the future.

What to Do if Pipes Are Frozen?

You can take the following measures. 

Turn Off the Water Supply Immediately

Frozen pipes can split without warning. If they burst, water will flood fast. The first step is to shut the main water valve. This stops the flow and lowers the risk of more damage. If your pipe has already burst, read our guide on what to do when a water pipe bursts for urgent steps to protect your home.

Open Faucets to Relieve Pressure

Open the water taps in your home. This lets trapped water escape once the ice starts to melt. It also stops more pressure from building inside the pipe. Begin with the cold taps and then the hot taps. 

Apply Gentle Heat to the Frozen Section

You can thaw a pipe with safe heat methods. Wrap the pipe in a warm towel or use a heating pad. A hair dryer works well too. Keep the heat moving along the frozen area so the pipe warms evenly. 

Call a Professional Like Lew Plumbing if Needed

If you cannot find the frozen spot or the pipe is behind a wall, it is safer to get help. Lew Plumbing can locate the problem fast and thaw the pipe without damage. Our trained team can also inspect your system to make sure no cracks have formed.

How to Winterize Pipes to Prevent Freezing

You can stop frozen pipes before they start. A few simple steps can save you from a burst and a big repair bill.

Insulation:

Wrap pipes with foam sleeves or pipe wrap. Fit the wrap snugly around each pipe for better results.

Drain outdoor lines:

Turn off the outdoor water valve. Remove garden hoses. Open the outdoor faucet and let water run out. Store hoses inside where they stay safe.

Open cabinet doors:

Warm air from the room can reach the pipes. This simple step can stop a freeze in its tracks.

Let water taps drip in a hard freeze:

If the temperature drops very low, let a small stream of water run from a faucet. A slow flow reduces pressure and lowers the chance of a burst.

Maintain Temperature:

If you leave for a short trip, set the thermostat to at least 13 degrees. Cold rooms make pipes vulnerable.

Replace old pipe where needed:

If your home has old pipe, consider new PVC or copper. New pipes hold up far better in cold weather.

When to Call Professionals

Frozen pipes are more than a winter nuisance. If you act fast, you can stop damage and avoid high repair bills. It is best to winterize pipes to avoid inconvenience. Wrap exposed sections, drain outside lines, and keep indoor temperatures steady. These small steps help prevent major problems.

Lew Plumbing knows local winter patterns. We have helped many homeowners keep their plumbing safe through the coldest months. Our goal is to restore your water supply and protect your property.

Some frozen pipe problems need urgent care from a licensed plumber. If water stops in more than one spot or you notice bulges in the pipe, call Lew Plumbing right away. 

FAQs

How long does it take to unfreeze pipes?

It depends on the severity. In icy spots, it may take a day. Otherwise, it may take a few hours.

Can ice in pipes melt on its own?

Yes, but it is risky because the melting pressure can cause cracks or leaks. It is safer to get help from a plumber.

If a frozen pipe has already burst, call our 24 hour plumber in Vancouver.