Many Charleston homeowners assume frozen pipes are a problem for colder states. But every winter, Rooter Man receives emergency calls from homeowners dealing with Frozen Water Lines during sudden cold snaps. When temperatures drop quickly, even coastal plumbing systems can freeze and stop water flow or worse cause pipes to burst.
At Rooter Man we help Charleston home and business owners respond quickly and safely when winter plumbing problems arise. Understanding how Frozen Water Lines happen, what warning signs to look for, and when to call a professional can help prevent costly damage to your home.
What Causes Frozen Water Lines in Charleston Homes
Frozen Water Lines occur when water inside pipes freezes and expands. This expansion creates pressure that can block water flow or crack the pipe entirely. Common causes in Charleston include:
- Sudden overnight freezes
- Pipes in crawl spaces or garages
- Plumbing located along exterior walls
- Uninsulated water lines
- Vacant or lightly heated homes
Even short cold spells can freeze pipes if they are exposed to cold air for several hours.
Signs Your Water Lines Are Frozen
- No water or only a small trickle from faucets
- Reduced water pressure throughout the home
- Strange sputtering sounds when turning on taps
- Visible frost on exposed pipes
If any of these symptoms appear, action should be taken immediately to reduce the risk of pipe failure.
How to Safely Thaw Frozen Water Lines
If no pipe has burst and water is not leaking, some Frozen Water Lines can be thawed safely with care. These methods however aren’t our top recommendation water isn’t immediately required.
Step One: Open the Faucet
Turn on the faucet connected to the frozen pipe slightly. This helps relieve pressure and allows melting water to escape.
Step Two: Apply Gentle Heat
You can use a hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in warm water. Begin heating the pipe closest to the faucet and slowly work inward toward the frozen section. Remember that applying high heat to pex (plastic) waterlines can cause issues if they start to be melted. Copper waterlines typically deal with the heat much better.
Step Three: Thaw Slowly
Slow warming reduces stress on the pipe. Never rush the process as this is how you can lead to leaks, bursts, or create damage that isn’t already existing.
PLEASE NOTE: Never Use Open Flames
Torches, propane heaters, or open flames can cause fires, pipe damage, and hidden wall destruction. These methods are extremely dangerous and should never be used on Frozen Water Lines.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Call a professional immediately if you cannot locate the frozen section, the pipe is behind walls or underground/flooring. You should also call a plumber if there is spraying or leaking water or any other signs that a pipe may have burst with the freeze.
Rooter Man technicians are equipped to handle Frozen Water Lines using safe professional methods. When freezing leads to cracks or breaks, Water Line Repair becomes critical to prevent further damage.
What to Do If a Frozen Pipe Bursts
If a waterline does burst, you’ll have to act quickly:
- Shut off the main water supply immediately
- Leave nearby faucets open
- Call a plumber right away
- Avoid electrical areas with standing water
In severe cases, damaged lines may require Repiping to restore safe and reliable water flow throughout the home.
How to Prevent Frozen Water Lines in the Future
Prevention is the best defense against Frozen Water Lines, especially during Charleston cold snaps. Make sure to insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces and garages, and keep indoor temperatures consistent even when you’re away. When you know that a cold-front is coming through, allow faucets to drip during extreme cold and even open cabinet doors under sinks. Finally if there are any cracks where cold air enters the home it’s best to get those taken care of quickly, (you might even save on your furnace’s energy bill)
Routine inspections from a licensed professional offering Plumbing Services can identify vulnerable piping before winter weather arrives.
Trusted Help for Frozen Water Lines in Charleston
Frozen Water Lines are stressful, but they do not have to turn into a disaster. Rooter Man provides fast, professional plumbing support to Charleston homeowners during winter emergencies.
If you are dealing with frozen pipes or want to prevent them before the next cold snap, our team is ready to help with expert service and reliable solutions.
When winter weather hits Charleston, knowing who to call can make all the difference.
