Should I Turn Off the Water if the Pipes Are Frozen?

Canadian winter weather raises concerns about frozen pipes for all property owners. High Point Plumbing often fields this question: “Should I turn off the water if the pipes are frozen?” The short answer is yes; taking immediate steps is the key to plumbing damage prevention.

As the leading provider of expert plumbing services in Marysville, BC, we want to share information about what happens when pipes freeze, the immediate actions you should take, and how to avoid this problem in the future.

What Happens When Pipes Freeze?

When water inside your pipes drops to freezing temperatures, ice forms and begins to expand. The pressure inside enclosed pipes can soon reach intense levels that can cause cracking or burst pipes. All pipe materials, whether metal or plastic, are vulnerable to severe pressure damage. 

While sudden and often intense water leaks are the primary cause of damage, frozen pipes can also disrupt your property’s entire water supply. Understanding the risks and how to act quickly often makes all the difference in mitigating the harm.

Should I Turn Off the Water If Pipes Are Frozen?

If you have any reason to suspect you have frozen pipes, the first step is to locate and close your emergency shut-off valve. Turning off the water interrupts your supply, but it prevents additional pressure from building up in the frozen section. Do this immediately to minimize the risk of pipes bursting and flooding your property.

Be prepared for these types of emergencies by familiarizing yourself with the location and operation of your emergency shut-off valve. It’s usually near your water meter or main water line. Test the valve periodically to make sure it’s in working order when you need it quickly. 

First Steps for Dealing with Frozen Pipes

Here are the immediate steps to take if you suspect frozen pipes:

1. Turn off the water. As mentioned above, close the emergency shut-off valve.
2. Locate the frozen section. Look for visible frost or bulging areas on exposed pipes. Common trouble spots include basements, attics, and pipes near exterior walls.
3. Thaw the pipe safely. Apply gentle heat using a hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in warm water. Avoid open flames or intense heat sources that could damage the pipe.
4. Monitor for leaks. As the ice melts, check for water dripping or pooling, which could indicate a crack in the pipe.

Call a Professional Plumber

Contact a plumber immediately if:

• You cannot locate the frozen section.
• The frozen pipe is inaccessible or unsafe to thaw on your own.
• You notice leaks or suspect the pipe has burst.

Expert plumbers use specialized equipment and tools like heat lamps or pipe-thawing machines to safely resolve frozen pipes. They also inspect for hidden damage caused by the extreme pressure of ice expansion.

A qualified plumber will follow a systematic process to ensure your plumbing system’s safety and effectiveness:

• Assessment. The plumber pinpoints the frozen area and evaluates the extent of the damage.
• Thawing. They use advanced tools like infrared heaters or pipe-thawing devices to carefully melt the ice.
• Repair or replacement. If the pipe has minor cracks, a plumber may apply epoxy or clamps. For severe damage, the plumber will replace the pipe section.
• Recommendations. Plumbers often recommend insulation or other preventive measures to provide long-lasting protection against frozen plumbing.

Preventing Frozen Pipes in Marysville, BC

So, should I turn off the water if the pipes are frozen? Of course, preventative care is the best protection against frozen pipes. Here are some tips to protect your plumbing:

• Maintain heat circulation. When you’re away, keep your thermostat set to at least 13°C (55°F). On very cold days and nights, open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to reach pipes.
• Insulate pipes. Wrap exposed pipes in foam insulation or use heat tape.
• Seal cracks and openings. Seal your indoor space by closing gaps around windows, doors, and walls.
• Let faucets drip. A slow trickle of water helps prevent freezing by relieving pressure and maintaining movement.
• Test your emergency shut-off valve. Regularly check the valve to make sure it’s operational.