As winter’s icy grip tightens, the threat of frozen pipes in Denver becomes a concern for homeowners. It’s a problem that can lead to costly repairs and disruptions.
To help you safeguard your plumbing system, our expert Centennial and Denver plumbers have compiled a comprehensive guide based on years of experience.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about frozen pipes, including what causes them, how to prevent them and how to deal with them. If you have any questions or need help prepping your plumbing for winter, be sure to reach out to our plumbers in Centennial or Denver right away!
Denver’s cold winters make frozen pipes a common issue for homeowners. Several factors contribute to freezing pipes in our area, including:
Preventing frozen pipes is important not just for your comfort but to protect your home from costly damage. In this section, we’ll look at easy ways to keep your Denver home safe from frozen pipes. By following these steps, you can enjoy a cozy winter without worrying about plumbing issues.
Proper insulation is the foundation of frozen pipe prevention. Insulate all exposed pipes using pipe insulation or foam sleeves. This added layer of protection helps to keep the cold at bay.
Pay special attention to pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics. These areas are particularly vulnerable to freezing.
Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature is crucial during the winter months. Avoid dramatic temperature fluctuations, even when you’re away from home. Sudden drops in temperature can trigger frozen pipes.
An old but effective trick is to open cabinet doors beneath sinks to allow warm air from your home to circulate around pipes located against exterior walls, reducing the risk of freezing.
On extremely cold nights, consider letting your faucets drip slowly. This continuous flow of water can prevent pipes from freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze compared to stagnant water.
Seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s walls, foundation, and around pipes. Cold air infiltration can put your pipes at risk.
Inspect your home for potential entry points for cold air and seal them promptly. This not only protects your pipes but also helps improve your home’s overall energy efficiency.
Disconnect and drain garden hoses before winter sets in. Store them indoors to prevent outdoor faucets from freezing.
Consider installing frost-proof faucets for your outdoor water supply. These faucets are less prone to freezing and can save you from potential headaches.
Heating tape or cable is a reliable solution for preventing frozen pipes. Wrap it around pipes vulnerable to freezing, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Heating tape provides a consistent source of low-level heat to keep the pipes above freezing temperatures.
If your garage has water supply lines, it’s important to keep it above freezing. Insulate the garage doors and walls as needed, or consider adding a heater to maintain a safe temperature.
Regular professional inspections of your plumbing system are highly recommended. A plumbing expert (like the ones here at Bell!) can identify vulnerable areas and address potential issues before they become emergencies. Schedule an annual inspection to ensure your plumbing is prepared for the winter season!
Recognizing the signs of frozen pipes in Denver and beyond is essential for early intervention. Here’s how to tell if your pipes have frozen:
When you turn on a faucet, and no water or only a trickle comes out, it’s a clear sign of a potential frozen pipe. Check multiple faucets to confirm the issue.
Reduced water pressure can occur as a result of frozen pipes. If your faucets have weaker water flow, it may be due to freezing.
Inspect exposed pipes for visible frost or ice buildup. If you notice frost on the exterior of the pipe, it’s a strong indicator of freezing.
Frozen pipes can sometimes make strange noises. Listen for cracking or popping sounds when you run water, which may indicate ice blockage.
In severe cases, frozen pipes can cause them to bulge or become distorted. If you notice any abnormalities in your pipes’ appearance, it’s a sign of freezing.
In some cases, frozen pipes can lead to strange odors in your water supply. If the water smells unusual, it could be due to frozen pipes affecting the plumbing.
Discovering frozen pipes in your home can be a stressful situation, but it’s crucial to thaw them safely to prevent further damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to safely thaw frozen pipes!
Of course if you’re uncomfortable with doing it yourself, or you’ve tried, unsuccessfully to thaw your frozen pipes, contact the experts at Bell immediately. Our plumbers have the expertise and equipment to address the issue safely and effectively, minimizing potential damage to your plumbing system.
Before starting the thawing process, locate the frozen section of the pipe. Typically, this area will feel extremely cold to the touch, and you may even see frost or ice on the exterior.
It’s essential to turn off the water supply to the affected pipe or the entire house if necessary. This prevents additional water from entering the frozen pipe and potentially bursting it.
Open the affected faucet and any other faucets connected to the same water line. This allows water to flow once the pipe thaws and relieves pressure within the system.
Use a safe and gentle heat source to thaw the frozen pipe. Some effective methods include:
Start thawing the pipe from the faucet end and work your way toward the frozen area. This allows water to flow out as it thaws.
Never use an open flame or high-temperature source, as this can damage the pipe or even start a fire!
Continue applying heat and monitoring the process. It can take many hours for a thoroughly frozen pipe to thaw out, depending on the extent of freezing. Avoid the temptation to turn the water main back on and test the pipe. Wait for it to thaw completely before proceeding.
If possible, use two people to turn the water back on after the frozen pipe has been thawed. Turn the water on slowly while your helper goes around the house and makes sure there are no water leaks.
After successfully thawing the pipe and restoring water flow, inspect it for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks. In fact, contact a certified plumber at Bell soon as possible to have the pipes thoroughly inspected. The pipe that froze may have experienced damage as a result of the freezing, and it could burst the next time the weather turns cold.
By doing these things to prevent frozen pipes in Denver and learning how to fix them if they happen, you can make it much less likely that your pipes will freeze and cause problems.
If you ever need help with your plumbing in Centennial, Denver, or the surrounding area, remember that Bell is here for you all year long. If you’re worried or need expert assistance, reach out to us without hesitation. Keep warm and worry less this winter!
We’re ready to answer your questions or schedule your appointment, call now or book online!
