Winter in Asheville, NC, can be beautiful, with crisp mountain air and scenic views. But when temperatures drop, the risk of frozen pipes becomes very real. Imagine coming home after a long day, ready to relax, only to discover you have no running water. This frustrating scenario is all too common, and when it happens, Barlow Plumbing Service, Inc. is here to help. We specialize in frozen pipe repair in Asheville, providing swift, reliable solutions to get your plumbing system back on track.
The Risks of Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are more than just an inconvenience. When water freezes inside your pipes, it expands, creating immense pressure that can cause pipes to crack or burst. The aftermath of a burst pipe can be devastating, leading to:
- Water damage to carpets, flooring, walls, and ceilings
- Destruction of furniture and personal belongings
- Costly repairs average $23,500 according to State Farm, and that can easily exceed $25,000, as reported by State Farm Insurance
Addressing frozen pipes promptly is crucial to avoiding further damage. Our team of frozen pipe plumbers in Asheville, NC, is equipped with the tools and expertise to resolve the issue safely and effectively.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Concern in Western North Carolina
While Asheville doesn’t experience the extreme cold of northern states, our winters still bring average lows of 29°F—cold enough to freeze water inside your pipes. Homes in the Blue Ridge Mountains often lack the insulation needed to protect plumbing from freezing temperatures, making them particularly vulnerable.
The risk of frozen pipes increases during sudden cold snaps, which are common in this region. Many homeowners may not realize their pipes are at risk until it’s too late. Frozen pipes can affect both older homes with outdated plumbing systems and newer homes with inadequate insulation in specific areas. This widespread vulnerability underscores the importance of being proactive when it comes to winter plumbing maintenance.
Pipe Thawing and Burst Pipe Repair Services
At Barlow Plumbing Service, Inc., we offer comprehensive services to address all your frozen pipe concerns, including:
- Pipe Thawing Service: Our experienced plumbers use heat guns and other safe methods to thaw frozen pipes quickly, restoring your water supply without causing damage. Time is of the essence with frozen pipes, and our team ensures a fast response to minimize downtime and potential complications.
- Burst Pipe Repair: If a frozen pipe has already ruptured, we’ll repair or replace it to minimize water damage and restore your plumbing system. Our team works efficiently to prevent further property damage and ensure your home is back to normal as soon as possible.
Preventing Frozen Pipes in Asheville, NC
The best way to avoid the stress and expense of frozen pipes is to prevent them altogether. Our team can help you winterize your plumbing system by:
- Adding insulation to exposed pipes in crawl spaces, attics, and basements
- Installing pipe wraps or heat cables for extra protection
- Sealing gaps and cracks around pipes to block cold air
- Offering expert advice on keeping your water lines safe during freezing temperatures
Preventative measures can also include simple everyday habits, such as letting faucets drip during extremely cold nights to keep water moving through the pipes. Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature, even when you’re away from home, can also help prevent freezing.
Common Signs of Frozen Pipes
Being able to identify frozen pipes early can save you time and money. Watch for these common warning signs:
- No water or significantly reduced water flow from faucets
- Visible frost on exposed pipes
- Unusual noises, such as banging or clanging, when turning on taps
- Strange odors coming from drains, which could indicate a frozen and blocked pipe
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly. Turning off the main water supply and calling a professional can prevent further damage.
State Farm Report on Frozen Pipes
Last year, State Farm processed over 17,200 claims for frozen pipes, totaling more than $432.5 million, with an average claim exceeding $23,500. Their report covers a number of critical issues for home owners to understand.
To prevent such costly damage, consider the following tips:
- Insulate pipes: Use pipe insulation in crawl spaces and attics to protect exposed pipes.
- Apply heat tape or cables: Wrap pipes with heat tape or thermostatically-controlled heat cables, ensuring they are approved for the intended use and installed according to manufacturer instructions.
- Seal leaks: Seal air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes with caulk or insulation to keep cold air out.
- Secure outdoor hoses and faucets: Disconnect garden hoses and, if possible, shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets before winter.
- Let water drip: Allow warm water to drip overnight from an indoor faucet on an exterior wall to prevent freezing.
- Maintain thermostat settings: Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night to prevent frozen pipes and reduce furnace strain during extreme cold.
- Open cabinet doors: This allows heat to reach uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.
If you're leaving for vacation:
- Set the thermostat: Keep it no lower than 55°F (12°C) and replace the battery if necessary.
- Request assistance: Ask a friend or neighbor to check your house daily to ensure it's warm enough to prevent freezing.
- Shut off the water: Drain the water system, but be aware that this may deactivate your sprinkler system.
If pipes freeze:
- Contact a plumber: If no water comes out when you turn on the faucets, leave them on and call a professional.
- Avoid open flames: Never use a torch or open flame to thaw pipes due to fire risk.
- Use a hair dryer cautiously: If safe, you can try thawing a pipe with a hair dryer, starting near the faucet and moving toward colder sections. Ensure you're not near standing water or flammable materials.
- Shut off the water supply: If pipes burst or a leak is detected, turn off the main water valve and leave faucets open. Ensure everyone in your household knows the valve's location and operation.
Implementing these measures can help protect your home from the significant expenses associated with frozen pipes.
Trust Asheville’s Most Reliable Plumbers
When it comes to frozen pipe repair in Asheville, Barlow Plumbing Service, Inc. is your trusted partner. We understand how disruptive plumbing issues can be, especially during the colder months. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing prompt, professional services tailored to your needs.
Our team doesn’t just address the immediate problem—we also identify the root cause to ensure long-term solutions. From inspecting your plumbing system for vulnerabilities to providing expert advice on winter maintenance, we’re here to help you protect your home from future issues.
Whether you need emergency pipe repair, burst pipe repair, or advice on winter plumbing maintenance, our skilled technicians are ready to help. Don’t let frozen pipes ruin your winter—contact us today to schedule service or learn more about our preventative solutions.
Call Us Now for Fast, Reliable Frozen Pipe Repair
Don’t wait until a frozen pipe turns into a costly disaster. Reach out to Barlow Plumbing Service, Inc. for expert pipe thawing service and frozen pipe repair in Asheville, NC. Our team is standing by to help you stay warm, safe, and worry-free this winter.
Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Contact Numbers:
- Asheville: (828) 251-9812
- Black Mountain: (828) 669-0755
- Weaverville: (828) 645-6892
Contact us via our website to learn more about our services and to schedule a consultation. Let Barlow Plumbing be your trusted partner in creating the custom home of your dreams.