Frozen Pipe Tips
No water? Follow these steps:
• Check other faucets in your home to see if the water flows from them.
• Check both the hot and cold supply.
o If you have water from the cold supply only, check the pipes near your water heater.
• Check your plumbing for any frost spots or pipes bulging as these are signs of a frozen pipe and a licensed plumber should be called.
• For those with a water softener, try placing it in by-pass mode.
• Check with your neighbor to see if they have water to confirm the problem is only with your home.
• Then turn off your main water supply to your home which is typically located near your water meter. Pressure differences between frozen and unfrozen water in pipes can cause weak pipes to bust once the water begins to thaw.
• Leave several faucets inside your home open to reduce pressure and help the thawing process.
• Do not use electricity around pressurized pipes to heat them. Water and electricity can be hazardous if the pipe bursts while trying to thaw.
• Never use an open flame to heat pipes.
• Contact a licensed plumber or allow time for your pipes to thaw on their own.
Checking to see if pipes have thawed:
• When turning your water supply back on, please open the valve slowly. This will allow your pipes to slowly build pressure and ease stress on your plumbing system. Visibly inspect both inside and outside your home for any leaks.
• If still frozen, shut the water back off, leaving several faucets open and allow more time for the pipes to thaw on their own.
