When temperatures drop in Ohio, frozen pipes quickly become one of the most common and costly home plumbing issues. A frozen pipe isn’t just inconvenient. If it bursts, it can cause major water damage within minutes.

The good news? Knowing the early signs and taking the right steps can help you avoid an emergency. Here’s what every homeowner should know about dealing with frozen plumbing this winter.

How to Tell If Your Pipes Are Starting to Freeze

Pipes that are starting to freeze often give homeowners warning signs. The sooner you recognize them, the easier it is to prevent a burst:

• Little or no water flow from faucets
• Frost or ice on exposed plumbing
• Gurgling or unusual noises when you turn on water
• Cold walls or flooring near plumbing lines
• Drains acting clogged even when pipes are clear
  

If you spot any of these symptoms, act quickly to prevent a frozen pipe from becoming a bigger issue.

What To Do Right Away If You Have a Frozen Pipe

1. Open the faucet connected to the affected line

A small trickle of water helps relieve pressure and encourages thawing.

2. Gently warm the pipe

Safe heating methods include:

• A hair dryer
• A heating pad
• Towels soaked in warm water
• A space heater placed nearby
  

Start near the faucet and work your way back so thawed water can safely flow out.

3. Increase your home’s temperature

Raising the thermostat helps warm hidden plumbing inside walls or cabinets.

4. Open cabinets under sinks

This helps warm air reach colder areas along exterior walls.

5. Call a licensed plumber if the pipe won’t thaw

If thawing is slow, the pipe is inaccessible, or you see cracking or leaking, contact APPC Plumbing right away.

What Not To Do

Avoid actions that could damage the pipe or create safety hazards:

• Using open flames (torches, lighters)
• Pouring boiling water over the pipe
• Turning the water on full blast
• Hitting or tapping frozen plumbing
  

Slow, steady heat is always the safest approach.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in the First Place

Preventing frozen pipes is always easier and far less expensive than repairing a burst one. Here’s what to consider:

Insulate exposed plumbing

Basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls are especially vulnerable.

Let faucets drip during extreme cold

Even a slow drip keeps water moving enough to reduce freezing.

Open sink cabinets on very cold nights

This helps warm air circulate around vulnerable plumbing.

Seal cold-air gaps

Check around windows, doors, hose bibs, and foundation cracks.

Disconnect outdoor hoses

Even frost-proof spigots can freeze when a hose is left attached.

Keep your thermostat consistent

Avoid turning heat too low overnight or when traveling.

Why Frozen Pipes Are Dangerous

When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and creates enough pressure to crack the plumbing from within. Often, the damage isn’t visible until the pipe thaws and water begins to flow again. A burst pipe can release gallons of water in minutes, leading to:

• Structural damage
• Mold growth
• Ruined belongings
• Costly repairs
  

Taking action early greatly reduces the risk.

Need Help With Frozen Pipes? Contact APPC Plumbing

Whether you’re dealing with frozen pipes right now or want to protect your home before temperatures drop further, APPC Plumbing offers fast, reliable service throughout the area. Contact us today for help with thawing pipes safely, preventing future freezing, and keeping your home protected all winter long.