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Frozen pipes can pose a significant threat to your property and belongings if left unresolved. More than just affecting the flow of water, ice can cause the pipes to burst if it expands under pressure. You’ll need a plumber to resolve the damage before any property damage that occurs. Fortunately, there are several ways to tell if the pipes are frozen. Here’s what you should know.

How to Tell if Your Pipes Are Frozen

1. Moisture on Walls

Even if the frozen pipe doesn’t burst, it still has the potential to cause a leak. The pressure can push through a minuscule opening in the pipe, such as a weak spot in the joint or a small crack somewhere along the way, and cause water to flow out. Often this occurs without the homeowner’s knowledge, especially if the damage is minimal and the ice thaws and refreezes throughout the season. Eventually, though, the moisture will build up where it’s leaking and could soak through drywall or the ceiling, leaving telltale stains behind.

2. Sluggish Water Supply

plumberWater can’t flow efficiently if there’s ice built up inside the pipes. You might notice that it trickles through some faucets, but on frigid days it may not flow at all. It is crucial to contact a plumber for assistance because they can typically find the specific pipe that is to blame and resolve the problem by applying some form of insulation to the structure to prevent it from refreezing and limiting water flow.

3. Obvious Frost Buildup

The most obvious sign of a frozen pipe is visible frost buildup on pipes that are exposed. Check areas like crawl spaces, basement utility closets, and attics. If you do spot frost, likely, that the pipes are already frozen through or slowly reaching that point. You can turn off the water supply entirely to prevent any more water from freezing inside. Another option is to turn on the faucets to trickle slowly throughout the house to relieve built-up pressure. If traditional methods of thawing, like applying direct heat or wrapping the pipe in a towel, don’t work, you’ll need a plumber to handle the job safely.
 

Are you concerned about potential frozen pipes in your home? Turn to the team at Do It Right Plumbing Sewer and Drain Services. Proudly serving homeowners throughout Minneapolis, MN, the plumbers offer a variety of services, including drain cleaning, emergency plumbing repairs, and clogged toilet fixes. Visit them online to find out more, or call them at (612) 388-8524 to schedule an appointment.

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