Frozen and Burst Pipes
Frozen and Burst Pipes
Burst Copper Water Pipe Due to Uninsulated, Frozen Hose Bib
Background
One cold winter evening, the weather took a sharp turn, and temperatures dropped overnight to 20°F. The next morning, a homeowner in Spartanburg discovered a major problem: the copper water pipe feeding their hose bib had burst. The frozen pipe cracked overnight because as the water in the hose bib/outdoor spigot froze it expanded. Unfortunately, the homeowner did not know to leave their hose bib opened to drip and relieve the pressure. This burst water pipe caused water to leak and flood the area around the house. This situation required immediate attention to prevent further water loss and possible damage to the home. In addition, the frozen and now burst pipe was connected to their water service line, meaning the water to the entire house had to be turned off at the water meter until the repair was made.
In this case study, we’ll explore how Sterling Craft Plumbing & Bath helped resolve the situation with a quick and affordable plumbing repair that restored the homeowner’s water supply.
The Issue: Frozen Hose Bib and Frozen Pipe Leading to Burst Copper Pipe
As the temperature dropped below freezing, the water inside the hose bib and connected copper pipe froze. When water freezes, it expands, creating immense pressure within the pipe. This pressure often causes the pipe to crack or burst, especially in areas where the pipe is exposed to cold air (copper pipe and CPVC pipe are more susceptible to freezing than PEX pipe, especially when uninsulated). Although this copper pipe had foam insulation around it, the actual hose bib/outdoor spigot was not insulated, and the pipe froze and burst because the outdoor spigot was not left open to drip.
The following morning, a neighbor noticed the major water leak around the pipe. A closer inspection revealed a visible crack in the copper pipe, confirming that it had burst overnight.
This burst pipe not only created a mess but also left the homeowner without running water or an outdoor water supply. Frozen and burst pipes can cause severe water damage and become more expensive repairs if not addressed quickly.
Finding a Solution: Affordable Plumbing Repair with Sterling Craft Plumbing & Bath
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the homeowner contacted the office here at Sterling Craft Plumbing & Bath for help. After explaining the problem and the burst pipe, the homeowner was relieved to learn that we could send one of our experienced plumbers out the very same day.
The plumber arrived promptly and quickly assessed the damage. The copper pipe, located outside and against the cold, had cracked due to the freezing temperatures and the frozen uninsulated hose bib. The plumber explained that the water inside the copper pipe had expanded as it froze, creating enough pressure to cause the rupture.
Sterling Craft Plumbing & Bath assured the homeowner that their team could fix the issue quickly at an affordable rate, and they were ready to start the copper repair and outdoor spigot replacement right away.
The Repair Process: Experienced Plumber Fixing the Burst Pipe
Upon arrival, the professional and experienced plumber from Sterling Craft Plumbing & Bath carefully examined the burst pipe. They explained the necessary steps for a successful repair and assured the homeowner that they would handle the plumbing leak quickly and at an affordable price.
Here’s how the repair process unfolded:
Steps Involved in the Plumbing Repair:
- Locate the Burst Section and Shut Off the Water Supply: The plumber identified the damaged portion of the copper pipe, which was attached to the exterior of the home. The main water supply was turned off at the water meter to ensure no water was flowing while the pipe was being repaired. The insulation was removed, the burst pipe was carefully cut out using specialized tools to avoid causing further damage to the surrounding plumbing.
- Replace the Pipe: A new section of pipe was installed in place of the burst pipe section. The plumber used high-quality fittings to ensure a secure and leak-proof connection. We then installed a new frost-free hose bib. All work was performed to code.
- Test the New Installation: After installing the new pipe and outdoor spigot, the plumber turned the water supply back on to test for leaks. Everything was checked thoroughly, and the new pipe and connections were confirmed to be leak-free.
- Insulate the Pipes: To prevent future freezing, the plumber wrapped the new pipe with foam insulation. This insulation would protect the pipe from the next cold snap and help avoid a similar problem in the future. We also reminded the homeowner to leave inside faucets on exterior walls and hose bibs slightly open to drip and relieve pressure whenever we expect an overnight freeze.
The burst copper pipe, as it looked when we arrived.
The Result: Quick and Effective Repair
The repair was completed in a timely manner, and the homeowner was happy to have the water turned back on to the home and have a new hose bib. There was no more leaking pipe or water pooling around the hose bib, and the plumber’s work ensured that the new pipe was secure and leak-free.
By choosing Sterling Craft Plumbing & Bath, the homeowner benefited from a fast and affordable plumbing repair that solved the problem efficiently. The plumber’s expert recommendation to insulate the pipes and leave faucets open to drip provided extra protection, reducing the risk of future freeze-related damage.
Preventing Future Damage: Tips from Sterling Craft Plumbing & Bath
Our licensed and experienced plumbers at Sterling Craft Plumbing & Bath offer valuable cold weather tips:
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: We recommended adding insulation around exposed outdoor pipes. This can help protect water lines from freezing during the winter months. Foam insulation is an affordable and effective solution, but rags or old t-shirts work in a pinch.
- Drip Faucets in Cold Weather: Leaving outdoor faucets slightly open to allow water to drip can help prevent the pressure buildup that leads to frozen pipes that can quickly become burst pipes. You can also leave cabinet doors open in the home to allow warm air to reach pipes on exterior walls.
- Disconnect Hose Bibs: It’s crucial to disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets during the winter. If water is left in the hose, it can freeze and cause the pipe to crack.
- Seal Gaps in Exterior Walls: Small cracks or gaps in exterior walls can let cold air reach the pipes in the crawl space under the home. Sealing these gaps can help keep the pipes warm and reduce the chance of freezing.
- Know the Signs of Frozen Pipes: Homeowners should be aware of the warning signs of frozen pipes, such as a lack of water flow or unusual sounds from the plumbing. If pipes are suspected to be frozen, it's important to act quickly to prevent them from bursting.
The repaired pipe and frost free hose bib.
Conclusion: Affordable and Effective Plumbing Solutions from Sterling Craft Plumbing & Bath
Frozen pipes and burst pipes can be a major concern for homeowners during winter. Sterling Craft Plumbing & Bath can solve the problem quickly and effectively. Our plumbing expertise and quick response time can prevent further damage, and get homeowners back up and running again.
If you experience a burst pipe or any plumbing issue caused by freezing temperatures, don't hesitate to contact Sterling Craft Plumbing & Bath. Our experienced plumbers offer affordable plumbing solutions to restore your plumbing system quickly and efficiently.