Let’s talk about frozen pipes. They’re a common winter headache, especially during those brutal cold snaps with strong winds. Fun fact: it’s not always the temperature outside that causes pipes to freeze—it’s the wind. Negative 10 degrees with no wind might not freeze a single pipe, but 30 degrees with howling winds? That’s a different story. And this isn’t just about outdoor pipes; even the ones inside your home, barns, well houses, and outbuildings can be at risk.
Here’s the deal: frozen pipes freak people out, but the truth is, there’s not a whole lot plumbers—or anyone—can do to unfreeze pipes that won’t cost a small fortune. At Austin Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, our approach is simple: we help you avoid wasting money on solutions that don’t work, focus on preventing further damage, and get things resolved as quickly as possible.
Taking Control of a Frozen Pipe Situation
Step 1: Find the Frozen Pipe
Try to isolate the problem. Is it a hot water line? If so, turn off the hot water supply to that area and keep an eye on it. It’s important to monitor for any leaks once things start to thaw.
Step 2: Let the Cold Escape & Add Some Heat
- Open up cabinets under sinks and clear out any clutter around basement pipes. This lets the trapped cold air out.
- Safely add heat. Use a space heater or a hair dryer to gently warm the area.
- If it’s a pipe in a barn, well house, or outbuilding, focus on keeping the wind out and adding safe heat to the space.
Step 3: Don’t Walk Away
This part’s critical: don’t leave the problem unattended. If you have to leave your house, turn off the main water supply first. This prevents any flooding or leaks when the pipe thaws.
If the Pipe Has Already Split
If the pipe is cracked, or is leaking, turn off the water to your home immediately. The damage is already done, but shutting off the water will prevent flooding when the ice melts. Give us a call, and we’ll get you scheduled for a fix.
A Word About Pipe Thawing Equipment
We have equipment to thaw pipes, but here’s what you should know:
- It only works on metal pipes, and most modern homes don’t use metal.
- It costs $400–$600 and doesn’t fix pipes that are already damaged.
- We typically reserve this for frozen main water lines or when an entire home is frozen up.
What Not to Do
- Don’t use open flames or torches to thaw pipes—it’s dangerous and unnecessary.
- Don’t leave your home without shutting off the water if you have a frozen pipe.
We’re Here to Help
Frozen pipes are no fun, but you don’t have to go it alone. If you need advice or assistance, give us a call at 262-367-3808. Our goal is to help you avoid unnecessary costs, protect your home, and get things back to normal as quickly as possible.
Stay warm and take care,
-Team Austin
