Twin Cities residents already know that brutal winters are simply a fact of life. We take the necessary steps in the fall to prepare for the expected snow, ice, and sub-zero temperatures. But many homeowners overlook one of the season’s most damaging and expensive threats—frozen pipes. At Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, we know that a little preparation can make a big difference, especially if you follow our recommendations below.
A burst pipe can spill hundreds of gallons of water per hour, leading to catastrophic flooding, structural damage, and the growth of mold. In the extreme cold of a Minnesota winter, this threat is amplified, costing homeowners thousands in repairs and displacement. Let’s understand why your home’s pipes are at risk, and what you can do to prevent a costly emergency.
Why Do Pipes Freeze? The Science of Cold
What’s going on in your pipes when the air gets below freezing? Think back to the days when people used ice cube trays in their freezer to make ice. You were always cautioned to only fill the trays about ¾ full, because water expands when it freezes. The same thing happens to the water that’s sitting inside your pipes. As the water expands, it can create immense pressure on the pipe. It may not burst – at least not right away – but the increased pressure can lead to significant weakening of those pipes, setting you up for an icy disaster.
In the Twin Cities, certain pipes are particularly susceptible to freezing:
- Pipes located in exterior walls.
- Plumbing that runs through unheated areas like crawl spaces, garages, or unfinished basements.
- Pipes that run near an uninsulated foundation or vent.
Even a small crack or gap in your home’s exterior can allow enough frigid Minnesota air to reach a pipe and cause a freeze in a matter of hours. That’s why we recommend homeowners do all that they can to keep their pipes warm and their water flowing.
Proactive Frozen Pipe Prevention for Twin Cities Homes
The best solution is prevention. A few simple steps can lower the risk of dealing with frozen pipes this winter:
- Disconnect exterior hoses: Before the first deep freeze, disconnect all outdoor hoses. Failure to do so can trap water near the exterior faucet, freezing the line and potentially bursting your internal piping.
- Insulate vulnerable pipes: Locate any pipes that are in unheated areas of your home, like basements, crawl spaces, or attics. Wrap them well with foam pipe insulation or heat tape, which can be purchased at any home improvement store.
- Seal air leaks: Check your home for air leaks around windows, electrical wiring, cable lines, and vent openings. Seal any gaps with caulk or expanding foam. The less cold air gets in, the warmer your pipes stay.
- Maintain your home’s indoor temperature: If you plan to travel, never set your thermostat below 55°F. Even a slightly warm home can prevent frozen pipes from occurring while you’re away.
When your local forecast calls for extreme, sustained cold snaps, ensure your pipes have the heat advantage with these quick steps:
- Open cabinet doors: For pipes running along exterior walls (often under kitchen or bathroom sinks), open the cabinet doors. This allows warmer indoor air to circulate around the pipes, raising their temperature.
- Trickle a faucet: During extreme, sustained cold snaps (sub-zero or below-zero wind chills), let a faucet drip overnight. A slight, continuous trickle keeps water moving, which prevents the formation of ice.
Spotting the Danger Signs of Frozen Pipes
A burst pipe is an obvious emergency, but catching a pipe before it bursts can save you time, money, and a major headache. Be vigilant for these key warning signs during a severe cold snap:
- No water or low pressure: If you turn on a faucet and only get a trickle, or nothing at all, a section of your pipe is likely completely blocked by ice. This is the most common and clear sign of frozen pipes.
- Strange smells: Water, even in pipes, is always slowly moving. If you notice a faint, sewer-like odor coming from a sink or drain, it may indicate a blockage. Ice can prevent water from draining properly, allowing gases to back up.
- Visible frost: For exposed pipes (like those in a basement or crawl space), a coating of frost or ice on the outside of the pipe is a definitive sign of a problem.
- Bulging pipe: In rare cases, especially with PEX or plastic piping, the pipe may visibly bulge where the ice block is forming due to pressure. Never touch a visibly bulging pipe.
If you observe any of these signs, act immediately. Time is absolutely critical to avoid a rupture.
Safe Thawing Methods – What to Do Now
If you suspect you have frozen pipes but they have not burst, follow these steps immediately. Do not use an open flame, propane torch, or boiling water poured directly on the pipe, as this can crack the pipe, cause burns, or start a fire.
Open the faucet. Locate the frozen pipe and the corresponding faucet. Keep the faucet turned on. Even a tiny trickle of water helps relieve pressure and allows running water to eventually melt the ice blockage.
Apply gentle heat. Use one of these methods to warm up your pipes:
- Hair dryer: This is the safest, most effective method for homeowners. Start at the end of the pipe nearest the faucet and move slowly toward the blockage.
- Heating pad: Wrap the affected area with a heating pad, electric blanket, or warm towels.
- Portable space heater: You can place a portable heater nearby, aimed at the pipe, especially in a basement or crawl space. Always maintain a safe distance from flammable materials and never leave a space heater unattended.
When to Call Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
If the pipe is hidden behind a wall, ceiling, or under the floor, or if you cannot thaw the pipe within an hour, call a professional. Our expert technicians have specialized, safe equipment to locate and thaw your frozen pipes without causing further damage to your home or plumbing system.
Dealing with frozen pipes is a daunting reality for Twin Cities homeowners, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. By taking the proactive steps outlined above, you can confidently navigate the coldest months. If you encounter a pipe emergency, or if you want an expert to assess your home’s plumbing vulnerabilities before the next cold snap hits, don’t hesitate to call Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing at (320) 559-3407. We provide reliable, on-time service throughout the Twin Cities area. Contact us today for all your plumbing and emergency needs!