Frozen Pipe Warning Signs

A frozen pipe is a leak waiting to happen — the burst usually comes at the thaw, not the freeze. Recognizing the warning signs gives you a window to act before water is pouring through a ceiling.

The early warnings

Frost visible on exposed pipe sections. A faucet that produces only a trickle when it should flow fully. Odd odors from a faucet or drain — a frozen blockage can trap smells that normally flush away. Banging, whistling, or bubbling sounds when you run water — ice constricting flow makes pipes talk.

Where to look first

Exterior walls, crawlspaces, attics, garages, and anywhere plumbing runs through unheated space. Hose bibs and the lines feeding them are the most common freeze points in Sandy homes. Under-sink cabinets on exterior walls are worth opening during cold snaps to let warm air in.

What to do — and not do

Keep the faucet open a trickle to relieve pressure. Warm the frozen section gradually — hair dryer, heating pad, warm towels. Never use an open flame or torch; besides the fire risk, rapid uneven heating can burst the pipe itself. If you can't locate the freeze or the pipe has already burst, shut the main valve and call for help.

After the thaw

The danger isn't over when temperatures rise — that's when split pipes start leaking. Check previously frozen areas for dampness, run the meter test, and don't use a suspect hose bib until it's verified. Spring leak investigations spike for exactly this reason.

Frequently asked questions