Frozen Pipe Repair in North Myrtle Beach

What to Do When a Pipe Freezes or Bursts

If water is actively escaping from a pipe, shut off the main water supply when it’s safe to do so. Knowing the shutoff location before an emergency saves time when a leak begins. After stopping the incoming water, call us promptly for a professional assessment.

Move belongings away from the affected area if you can do so without entering an unsafe space. Towels or a wet vacuum can help collect accessible water when conditions allow. These precautions don’t replace plumbing repairs, but they can help manage water already released into the property.

In Southern states, pipes can begin freezing when outdoor temperatures reach approximately 20 degrees. Water expands as it freezes, creating pressure that can split a pipe. A rupture may not become visible until the ice thaws and water flows through the damaged section.

Thaw a Frozen Pipe Safely

If a pipe appears frozen but hasn’t burst, allow heat from the home to thaw it slowly. Open cabinet doors below kitchen and bathroom sinks so warm indoor air can reach the supply pipes. Don’t use an open flame or any method that creates a fire or burn hazard.

Signs of a Frozen or Burst Pipe

A complete loss of water or sharply reduced flow at one or more fixtures may indicate a frozen supply pipe. Low water pressure alone doesn’t confirm a frozen line because several plumbing conditions can restrict flow. A plumber must assess the system to identify the cause.

Act immediately if you notice:

• Frost forming on an exposed section of piping
• A pipe that appears swollen or bulged
• Water leaking directly from a supply pipe
• Water flowing when faucets and water-using fixtures aren’t operating

A burst pipe can continue releasing water even when no fixture is in use. Shut off the main supply when safe, move nearby belongings, and contact us for urgent plumbing service. Avoid handling a damaged pipe or entering an area where water may have reached electrical equipment.

Cold-Snap Prevention for Coastal Properties

Occupied buildings and vacant seasonal rentals both need preparation for freezing weather. Property owners and managers should locate the main water shutoff before temperatures fall. They should also confirm that someone responsible for the property knows where it’s and can access it during an emergency.

The American Red Cross advises leaving a home’s thermostat on and set no lower than 55 degrees when leaving during cold weather. It also recommends maintaining the same setting during the day and at night. Active temperature management is particularly important when a seasonal property will be vacant during a freeze.

Opening cabinet doors beneath sinks allows heated indoor air to circulate around supply lines. Before a forecasted cold snap, check areas containing accessible plumbing and keep indoor heat operating consistently. If water flow stops, visible frost develops, or a leak begins, shut off the water when safe and call our plumbers rather than waiting for temperatures to rise.