'Tis the season for frozen pipes. While we all try our best to avoid this irritating occurrence, it can happen to the best of us. Especially while temperatures outside are so frosty. With a snowstorm on its way, here are some of the telltale signs to know if your pipes might have frozen. Because you might not be able to call a plumber out to check.
Some of these signs can signal other problems, and it's not always the case that your pipes are frozen. If you do have a few of these issues together, it's safe to assume that you're dealing with frozen (or nearly freezing!) pipes.
Here's what to look out for while temperatures are very low outside. This way, you can deal with the situation ASAP.
Five signs that your pipes are frozen
1. There's no water coming out of them
This one might be more than obvious, but if you turn your faucets on and there's no water, then your pipes might have frozen. There could be other reasons for this, like your water utility carrying out servicing, so before you panic, check on their website.
This could also be an indication that your hot water has run out, if yours is on a separate tank from your cold water.
Dealing with a trickle? This is a sign your pipes are on their way to freezing, so you'll want to get there before this happens entirely.
2. Your drains smell bad
Yes, a smelly sink could be a sign of frozen pipes. This is because ice can trap odors, forcing them back up into your drain.
Obviously, this could be because of something you've cooked recently, so don't always skip to the answer of frozen pipes.
3. Slow drainage
Frozen pipes can make your toilets drain slower thank usual, as there's not enough water to fill the toilet back once it has been flushed. This could also cause your sink to drain water gently, instead of hurriedly.
Of course, these issues could indicate another blockage, but if they come as a pair, I'd assume it's because of frozen pipes.
4. Loud noises from your pipes
We all hear noises when our heating clicks on at night, or when the water tank starts heating, and these noises are normal.
But, anything that you notice that's louder than usual or rings for longer than usual, might indicate that your pipes are a little too cold. These noises are usually a banging, whistling or gurgling.
5. Changes in appearance to your pipes
This one requires you to wrap up warm, as you're going to need to find some of your exposed pipes to take a look at their appearance. If there's visible frost on them or even in some cases, condensation, it could signal that they're freezing.
Otherwise, a big telltale sign will be that they're bursting — severely frozen pipes can burst the metal from the pressure that's in the pipes. This is an extreme case that you won't be able to fix without calling a plumber.
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