Winter temperatures in Thornton, CO can drop fast—and when they do, frozen pipes become one of the most common and damaging plumbing emergencies homeowners face. A frozen pipe isn’t just inconvenient; it can quickly lead to burst pipes, water damage, and costly repairs if not handled properly.
Knowing what to do before calling an emergency plumber in Thornton, CO can help minimize damage and protect your home. Below, we’ll walk through safe, effective steps you can take right away—and explain when it’s time to call in the professionals at Royal Service Plumbing.
Why Frozen Pipes Are Such a Serious Problem
When water freezes, it expands. Inside your plumbing system, that expansion puts intense pressure on pipes—especially in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls. Even pipes that don’t immediately burst can develop cracks that leak once the ice melts.
Frozen pipes are most common during:
- Sudden temperature drops
- Extended cold spells
- Overnight freezes with little water usage
Older plumbing systems and homes with aging pipes are especially vulnerable.
What to Do Immediately If You Suspect Frozen Pipes
1. Shut Off the Water Supply
The most important first step is to turn off your main water valve. This prevents flooding if the pipe bursts while thawing. If you know which pipe is affected, shut off the closest isolation valve instead.
2. Open Faucets
Turn on both the hot and cold faucets connected to the frozen pipe. This relieves pressure in the line and gives melting water somewhere to go, reducing the chance of a rupture.
3. Locate the Frozen Section
Check areas most prone to freezing:
- Exterior walls
- Basements and crawl spaces
- Near windows, doors, or vents
- Under sinks on outside walls
Look for frost, condensation, or pipes that feel extremely cold to the touch.
4. Apply Gentle Heat (Safely)
Slow, controlled heat is key:
- Use a hair dryer, moving it back and forth along the pipe
- Wrap pipes with warm, damp towels, replacing them as they cool
- Use an electric heating pad if available
Never use open flames, propane torches, or high-heat space heaters. These can damage pipes and create serious fire hazards.
5. Watch for Leaks
As the pipe thaws, keep a close eye on it. If you notice bulging, cracking, or leaking water, stop immediately and call an emergency plumber.
When to Call an Emergency Plumber in Thornton, CO
DIY steps can help in minor cases, but some situations require immediate professional help. Call Royal Service Plumbing right away if:
- A pipe has burst or is actively leaking
- You can’t locate or access the frozen pipe
- Water flow doesn’t return after safe thawing
- There’s flooding or no water anywhere in the home
Our licensed plumbers provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services and arrive equipped to stop damage fast.
Preventing Frozen Pipes in the Future
If frozen pipes are a recurring issue, it may be time to look beyond temporary fixes.
- Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas
- Keep cabinet doors open during extreme cold
- Let faucets drip slightly overnight during freezes
- Maintain consistent indoor temperatures
For older homes or properties with frequent pipe issues, a Whole Home Repipe in Thornton, CO may be the most reliable long-term solution. Repiping replaces outdated or damaged plumbing with modern materials designed to withstand Colorado’s winter conditions.
FAQ: Frozen Pipes & Emergency Plumbing
1. How can I tell if a pipe is frozen but not burst?
Signs include reduced or no water flow, visible frost on pipes, or unusual odors from drains. Pipes often burst during thawing, not freezing.
2. Can frozen pipes thaw on their own?
They sometimes do, but waiting increases the risk of bursting. Controlled thawing and monitoring are safer.
3. Is it safe to use a space heater to thaw pipes?
No. Space heaters can overheat pipes or start fires. Stick to hair dryers or warm towels.
4. What should I tell the emergency plumber when I call?
Let them know where the problem is, whether the water is shut off, and if you see visible leaks or flooding.
5. When should I consider a whole home repipe?
If you experience frequent frozen pipes, leaks, or corrosion—especially in an older home—a repipe can prevent repeated emergencies and water damage.
Call Royal Service Plumbing for Emergency Pipe Repair in Thornton, CO
Frozen pipes can escalate fast—but you don’t have to handle them alone. Royal Service Plumbing offers fast, reliable emergency plumbing services in Thornton, CO, backed by experienced, licensed professionals who know how to protect your home.
Whether you need urgent repairs or are considering a whole home repipe to prevent future winter damage, we’re here to help.
Call (720) 740-0909 now for immediate assistance or to schedule an inspection. When winter hits hard, Royal Service Plumbing is ready 24/7.