Signs Your Pipes Are Frozen:

Do you notice a smell?

When your pipes begin to freeze, the old water and build-up near your drains will have nowhere to go, so you might begin to notice a musty smell coming from your sink and your tub. Anytime you smell something coming from your drains, it’s an easy giveaway that something is wrong with your plumbing system.

Has the water stopped?

The first thing that comes to mind when the water stops running is that your water might have been turned off, but think again. One of the most obvious signs of frozen pipes is when the water stops running. If the weather has been the perfect storm for freezing temperatures and you find yourself in this situation, it’s time to call an experienced plumber.

Is there frost on your pipes?

For pipes that can be seen, like pipes under sinks you might be able to see frost that has built up on the exterior of the pipe. If you notice that, don’t turn your faucet on – call a plumber immediately. In a time-sensitive scenario like this, now is not the time to Google “how to’s”.

Be Proactive With Your Pipes This Winter:

Tip #1. Keep the Heat On

If you’re planning a trip to get away from the cold this winter, make sure you leave your heat on when you’re away. You don’t have to keep the heat as high as you normally do, but keeping it set above 55 degrees Fahrenheit is a safe plan.

Tip #2. Let the Faucet Drip

You might think this is a waste of water, but letting the sink drip during the winter will help when combating pipes from freezing. Leaving the faucet on to drip allows the water to keep moving within the pipes, preventing it from freezing and possibly causing the pipes to burst.

Tip #3. Add Insulation

Pipes that are located in your basement, attic and cabinets might need some insulation to keep them protected from the cold. There a couple of different options when it comes to insulation. Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chances of freezing. If you’re unsure, that would be a great time to call Fosh!

If you don’t feel like having an indoor ice rink inside your home this winter, look out for the signs of your pipes freezing and follow these steps to proactively prevent it from happening. If this unfortunate situation does happen to you and your family this season, simply call the plumbing experts at Fosh Plumbing & Heating at 610-496-5700. At Fosh, we know that plumbing issues are a time-sensitive issue—that’s why we offer 24/7 emergency service.