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Cold winter weather in Atlanta may not be as harsh as it is up north, but freezing temperatures still pose a real risk to your home’s plumbing. When pipes freeze, they can burst, causing serious water damage and expensive repairs. At Fix & Flow Plumbing Co., we often get calls from homeowners dealing with frozen pipes after a sudden cold snap. The good news? You can take simple steps to protect your pipes and keep water flowing all winter long.
Why Do Pipes Freeze in Winter?
Water expands as it freezes. If the water inside your plumbing system freezes, the pressure inside the pipe builds until it cracks or bursts. Even a small split can release gallons of water into your home, damaging walls, floors, and personal belongings. Pipes most at risk are those exposed to cold air, such as outdoor hose bibs, crawl spaces, attics, basements, and unheated areas of your home.
Signs Your Pipes May Be Frozen
- Little or no water comes out when you turn on a faucet.
- You hear unusual banging or clanging sounds in your pipes.
- You notice frost forming on exposed pipes.
- Your toilet won’t refill after flushing.
If you notice any of these signs, call Fix & Flow Plumbing immediately at 404-800-3569 to prevent a pipe from bursting.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter
Here are practical steps you can take to reduce your risk of frozen or burst pipes during cold weather:
- Insulate pipes in cold areas: Wrap exposed pipes in insulation sleeves or foam, especially in basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces.
- Keep cabinet doors open: On freezing nights, open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to let warm air circulate around plumbing.
- Let faucets drip: Allowing a slow drip from faucets on exterior walls helps relieve pressure inside pipes and keeps water moving.
- Disconnect hoses: Remove and drain garden hoses. Shut off outdoor spigots or install frost-proof hose bibs.
- Seal drafts: Close gaps around windows, doors, and your foundation to prevent cold air from reaching your plumbing.
- Maintain home heat: Keep your thermostat at least 55°F, even when away from home.
What to Do if Your Pipes Freeze
If you suspect a frozen pipe, don’t wait for it to burst. Here’s what you can do:
- Turn off the water supply to reduce pressure.
- Apply gentle heat using a hair dryer or warm towel. Never use an open flame.
- If you can’t locate the frozen pipe or if it has already burst, call Fix & Flow Plumbing immediately at 404-800-3569. We respond quickly to help prevent further damage.
Helpful Resources
For more information on preventing frozen pipes, check out these resources:
Protect Your Home This Winter
Frozen pipes are stressful, but prevention is straightforward with a little preparation. If you run into trouble or notice any leaks, call Fix & Flow Plumbing at 404-800-3569. Our team of Atlanta plumbing experts will help you prevent costly damage and keep your water flowing safely.
Fix & Flow Plumbing Co. – We Do It Right the First Time.
Categories
Plumbing Tips, Atlanta Plumbing, Seasonal Plumbing
Tags
frozen pipes Atlanta, burst pipe prevention, winter plumbing maintenance, Atlanta plumber, frozen pipe repair