Waking up to a frozen pipe is a stressful way to start your morning, especially during a freezing Madison, WI winter. When you turn on the faucet and nothing comes out, it is easy to feel panic set in. Frozen pipes can lead to bursts and serious water damage if you do not handle them quickly. The good news is that acting fast can often thaw the ice and save your home from a plumbing disaster.
Immediate Steps: How to Thaw Frozen Pipes Safely
First, start with getting heat to the potentially frozen area.
Next, open the faucets connected to the frozen line. This relieves pressure within the system and gives the water a place to go as the ice begins to melt. You can then try thawing the pipe with gentle heat. A hairdryer or a heating pad wrapped around the pipe works well. Never use an open flame, such as a blowtorch, as this creates a serious fire hazard and can damage the pipe material.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in the Future
Once you get the water flowing again, you will want to make sure this does not happen tomorrow night. Start by looking for exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or garages.
During extreme cold snaps, let your faucets drip slightly. Moving water is much harder to freeze than standing water. Also, keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature day and night rather than lowering it while you sleep.
When to Call a Plumber for Frozen Pipes
Sometimes a frozen pipe is behind a wall or in a place you cannot reach. If you cannot locate the frozen section or if you see that a pipe has already burst, you need professional help immediately. Trying to fix a burst pipe on your own can often lead to more water damage. If you are unsure about what to do, calling a professional is the safest choice for your home.
Trust H.J. Pertzborn Plumbing & Fire Protection for Emergency Plumbing Services
Winter in Madison can be tough on your plumbing, but you do not have to face it alone. If you need help with frozen plumbing repair or want to prepare your home for the cold, our team is ready to assist. Contact H.J. Pertzborn Plumbing & Fire Protection today for reliable emergency plumbing services that keep your home safe and warm.
Image credit: // Shutterstock // McOwenLevi