When temperatures drop in Fort Worth, frozen pipes become one of the biggest winter plumbing problems for homeowners. Knowing what to do if your pipes freeze can save you from burst lines, water damage, and expensive repairs.
At Sunny Service, we’ve helped families across Fort Worth and Tarrant County deal with winter plumbing issues for years. If you think your pipes are frozen, don’t wait. Call Sunny’s plumbing team for professional frozen pipe repair and prevention tips before a small freeze turns into a big problem.
Why Pipes Freeze in Fort Worth
Most Texas homes aren’t built for long cold snaps. Many water lines run through attics, crawl spaces, or exterior walls where insulation is thin. When a sudden cold front moves in, these exposed areas can drop below freezing quickly.
Common causes include:
- Poorly insulated pipes near outer walls or garages
- Overnight lows in the 20s or below
- Drafts or open crawl space vents
- Outdoor plumbing and spigots without insulation
Even a brief freeze in Tarrant County can cause pipes to ice over, expand, and eventually burst once the temperature rises again.
Early Signs You Might Have a Frozen Pipe
- Little or no water coming from faucets
- Sudden drop in water pressure
- Frost visible on exposed pipes
- Strange smells or gurgling from drains
- Water line bulging or feeling unusually cold
If you notice any of these signs, act quickly. The faster you respond, the better chance you have of thawing the pipe before it bursts.
Immediate Steps to Take if You Suspect a Frozen Pipe
- Turn off the main water supply. This stops pressure from building and reduces the chance of a burst.
- Open faucets throughout the house. This helps relieve pressure and gives thawed water a place to escape.
- Check exposed pipes under sinks or in unheated areas for frost or bulges.
- Warm the area safely. Use a space heater, heating pad, or warm towels to gently raise the temperature.
- Call a licensed plumber if you can’t locate the blockage or the line is already damaged.
Never ignore a frozen pipe. Even if it hasn’t burst yet, ice inside can weaken the line and cause leaks later.
Safe Thawing Methods and What Not to Do
You can sometimes thaw a frozen pipe on your own, but it must be done carefully.
Safe methods:
- Apply gentle heat with a hair dryer or heating pad.
- Warm the surrounding air with a space heater, but keep it at a safe distance.
- Start from the faucet end and move toward the frozen section.
Never do the following:
- Do not use an open flame like a torch or lighter.
- Do not leave electrical devices unattended near water.
- Do not bang on the pipe or try to force it open.
Improper thawing can cause serious damage or even fire. If you’re unsure, call Sunny Service for professional help.
What to Do If a Frozen Pipe Bursts
- Shut off the main water valve immediately.
- Turn off the power to affected areas if water is near outlets or appliances.
- Mop up or vacuum any standing water to prevent damage to floors and walls.
- Contact Sunny Service for emergency burst pipe repair.
Once the situation is under control, we can inspect your plumbing system for hidden leaks or weakened pipes that could fail later.
How Sunny Service Can Help After a Freeze
When a cold front hits Fort Worth, our plumbers are ready to respond. Sunny Service handles everything from frozen pipe thawing to full burst pipe repair. We’ll locate the damage, repair or replace the affected section, and check your system for other risks.
Our plumbers are licensed, insured, and familiar with the plumbing challenges North Texas homeowners face. We also offer financing options to make urgent repairs more manageable.
Sunny Service members of the Comfy Club receive priority scheduling and ongoing maintenance to prevent issues like frozen pipes before they start.
Preventing Future Frozen Pipes in North Texas
- Insulate exposed pipes in attics, crawl spaces, and garages.
- Disconnect outdoor hoses and cover spigots.
- Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to let warm air reach plumbing.
- Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold to keep water moving.
- Schedule an annual plumbing inspection through Sunny’s Comfy Club.
Preventive care saves time, money, and headaches once temperatures drop again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frozen Pipes
How cold does it have to get for pipes to freeze in Fort Worth?
Pipes can start freezing when temperatures fall to around 28°F for several hours, especially in uninsulated areas.
Can I thaw a frozen pipe myself?
You can try if the pipe is accessible but be cautious. If it’s behind walls or you’re unsure, it’s best to call a professional.
Does Sunny Service repair burst pipes?
Yes. We handle emergency plumbing calls throughout Fort Worth and Tarrant County, including frozen and burst pipe repair.
