How To Know If You Have Frozen Pipes

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

The winter months bring certain property maintenance concerns that we all need to be aware of. When the temperatures drop, one major issue that could come up is a frozen water pipe.

4 Signs of Frozen Pipes

There are a few clues which can help you determine if you have frozen pipes at your property:

• The Temperature Is Right- Pipes will not freeze if it is not cold enough outside for them to do so. Water does not freeze when it is 60 degrees Fahrenheit outside, and neither do pipes. When the temperature falls to 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, you should begin to take precautions to prevent vulnerable pipes from freezing.
   
• There Is Frost on the Pipe- For pipes that can actively be seen, such as those under sinks, you may be able to see frost that has accumulated on the exterior of the pipe. This can serve as a warning sign that the pipe is frozen before you ever try to turn on the faucet.
   
• No Water Is Coming Out of the Faucet-  Is there a lack of running water. If you or a tenant turn on a kitchen or bathroom faucet and only a slight trickle of water or no water at all comes out, the water pipe leading to the faucet may be frozen.

• Strange Smells- Is there an odd smell coming from a faucet or drain. If the pipe is partially or completely blocked, the only way the odor can escape is back up in the direction of your property.