Frozen Pipes? We Can Safely Thaw and Repair Them

Colorado deep freezes don’t wait — and neither do we. Southside Plumbing uses specialized equipment to safely thaw frozen water lines and repair burst pipes throughout Highlands Ranch and the South Denver metro area.

When a Deep Freeze Hits, We’re Ready

Colorado winters are unpredictable. When temperatures plunge into the teens or single digits for days at a time, frozen pipes can go from a scary possibility to a costly reality in a hurry. Pipes along exterior walls, in unheated basements, crawlspaces, and garages are especially vulnerable — and once a pipe freezes, the risk of a burst climbs fast.

Southside Plumbing has been helping homeowners in Highlands Ranch, Littleton, Centennial, Lone Tree, and Castle Pines deal with frozen and burst pipes since 2005. Our licensed master plumbers carry specialized pipe-thawing equipment designed to safely restore water flow without damaging your pipes or your home. Whether you need emergency thawing, burst pipe repair, or a full winterization plan, we’re the local team you can count on.

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KNOW THE SIGNS

How to Tell If Your Pipes Are Frozen

Catching a freeze early can prevent a burst. Here’s what to watch for when temperatures drop.

No Water or Reduced Flow

If you turn on a faucet and nothing comes out — or just a trickle — a frozen section is likely blocking the line. Check whether it’s one fixture or the whole house.

Frost on Exposed Pipes

Visible frost or ice crystals on pipes in your basement, crawlspace, or under sinks is a clear sign the water inside has frozen or is close to freezing.

Unusual Sounds

Banging, clanking, or hissing coming from your walls or pipes can indicate ice buildup putting pressure on the line. These sounds shouldn’t be ignored.

Bulging or Cracked Pipes

Water expands as it freezes. If you notice a pipe that looks swollen or has a visible crack, turn off the water immediately and call a plumber before it bursts.

FREEZE PREVENTION

How to Keep Your Pipes from Freezing

A few simple steps can save you from a major headache when temperatures plunge. Start here before the next cold snap hits.

01

Keep Your Home 60°+

Maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home — even at night and even in rooms you don’t use often. Cold interior spaces put nearby pipes at risk.

02

Open Cabinet Doors

Open the cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks, especially those on exterior walls. This lets warm air circulate around the pipes that are most vulnerable to freezing.

03

Let Faucets Drip

A slow drip on faucets fed by pipes along exterior walls, above unheated spaces, or in basements keeps water moving and relieves pressure if ice starts to form.

04

Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Disconnect garden hoses and shut off the interior valve that feeds your exterior hose bibs. Drain any remaining water from the line. A connected hose can trap water and cause the pipe behind it to freeze and crack.

05

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Add pipe insulation to any exposed plumbing in your basement, crawlspace, or garage. Foam sleeves are inexpensive and can make a significant difference during a deep freeze.

06

Seal Drafts Near Plumbing

Check for gaps around where pipes enter your home, near foundation vents, and around basement windows. Seal any drafts that could send cold air directly onto your pipes.

Frozen Pipe FAQ

Pipes can start freezing when temperatures drop below 20°F, especially along exterior walls, in unheated basements, crawlspaces, and garages. In Colorado’s Front Range, long stretches in the teens or single digits dramatically increase the risk. Wind and poor insulation can make pipes freeze even faster. Older homes and homes with finished basements with pipes behind the drywall are especially vulnerable. If you live in Highlands Ranch, Castle Pines, Greenwood Village, or nearby, Southside Plumbing can assess your risk and recommend upgrades.

Yes. A slow drip on vulnerable lines can help reduce the chance of freezing by keeping water moving and slightly relieving pressure if ice forms. Focus on faucets on exterior walls, above unheated spaces, and in basements. A drip won’t protect severely exposed or uninsulated pipes by itself, but it’s a helpful part of your freeze-prevention strategy. For long cold snaps in Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Castle Pines, and nearby, Southside Plumbing can recommend a full freeze-prevention plan for your home.

Never use an open flame or torch — that’s a major fire risk and can destroy your pipes. Electric space heaters or a hair dryer on a low setting can be safe if used carefully and monitored, away from flammable materials. Keep heaters stable, don’t leave them unattended, and avoid overloading outlets. If you can’t easily reach the frozen section, stop and call a professional. Southside Plumbing uses specialized thawing equipment designed to safely unfreeze pipes without damaging them.

First, turn off your main water valve immediately to stop the flow. If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, shut off power to that area if you can do so safely. Move belongings out of the affected area and start soaking up water with towels or a wet/dry vacuum. Do not reopen the valve until a professional inspects the damage. Southside Plumbing can respond quickly in Highlands Ranch, Littleton, Centennial, and surrounding areas to repair broken water lines and minimize damage.

If every faucet in your home is dry, check with neighbors or your water provider first. If they have water and you don’t, your main line or entry piping may be frozen. If only certain fixtures or areas are dry, you likely have frozen branch lines inside the home. Listen for strange noises and look for frost on pipes or unusually cold spots in walls. Southside Plumbing uses specialized equipment to locate and safely thaw frozen lines in local homes.

Our licensed master plumbers arrive with specialized pipe-thawing equipment designed to safely restore water flow without damaging your pipes or your home. We locate the frozen section, thaw it in a controlled manner to prevent the freeze from spreading (which increases the risk of a burst), and inspect for any cracks or damage caused by the ice. If a pipe has already burst, we repair or replace the damaged section and get your plumbing system running again.

Frozen Pipe Service Throughout South Metro Denver

Schedule with Southside Plumbing today.