Call the Plumber—These Pipes Are About to Burst!

If you’re reading this, you might be hearing ominous creaks from your walls or noticing a sudden drop in water pressure. Maybe your pipes are icy to the touch—or worse, you’ve already spotted a bulge. Call the plumber—these pipes are about to burst! Ignoring the warning signs can lead to thousands in water damage, mold growth, and even structural issues. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do right now, how to prevent future emergencies, and why acting fast saves both your home and your wallet.

Why Do Pipes Burst—and How Fast Can It Happen?

Pipes burst primarily due to freezing temperatures. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands—increasing pressure by up to 40,000 psi, far beyond what copper or PVC can withstand. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), burst pipes cause over $1 billion in property damage annually in the U.S. alone.

The danger window is narrow:

• At 20°F (-6°C), pipes can freeze in as little as 6 hours.
• Once ice fully blocks a pipe, pressure builds behind the blockage—and bursting can occur within minutes after thawing begins.

“Most homeowners don’t realize the real threat isn’t the ice itself—it’s the pressure buildup when water tries to flow past a frozen section,” says Master Plumber Elena Rodriguez of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC).

5 Warning Signs Your Pipes Are About to Burst

Don’t wait for a flood. Watch for these red flags:

1. No water or reduced flow from faucets
2. Frost or condensation on exposed pipes
3. Strange smells (sewer-like odors may indicate a crack)
4. Visible bulges or damp spots on walls or ceilings
5. Loud banging or whistling sounds from plumbing

If you notice any of these, it’s time to call the plumber—these pipes are about to burst!

What to Do Immediately: A 6-Step Emergency Plan

When seconds count, follow this checklist:

1. Turn off the main water supply
   Locate your main shutoff valve (usually in the basement, garage, or near the water meter). Turn it clockwise until it stops.
2. Open all faucets
   This relieves pressure in the system and allows trapped water to drain.
3. Apply gentle heat to frozen sections
   Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in warm (not boiling!) water at 100–110°F (38–43°C). Never use open flames or torches.
4. Check for leaks as pipes thaw
   Slowly monitor for drips or spraying—this confirms a rupture.
5. Shut off electricity if water is near outlets
   Prevent electrocution risk in flooded areas.
6. Call a licensed emergency plumber immediately
   Search for “24/7 emergency plumber near me” and verify licensing via your state’s contractor board.

⚠️ Never ignore a frozen pipe—even if it hasn’t burst yet. Up to 30% of frozen pipes fail during thawing, not while frozen.

Prevention: How to Keep Pipes from Freezing This Winter

Prevention is far cheaper than repair. The average insurance claim for burst pipes is $15,000–$20,000 (State Farm, 2023). Protect your home with these proven steps:

For added safety, consider a smart water shutoff system (like Flo by Moen or Phyn), which detects abnormal flow and shuts off water automatically—reducing damage by up to 90%.

When to DIY vs. When to Call a Pro

While minor insulation is DIY-friendly, never attempt to repair a burst or frozen pipe yourself unless you’re a licensed plumber. Why?

• Hidden leaks can cause toxic mold within 24–48 hours (CDC )
• Improper repairs may violate local plumbing codes
• Insurance claims can be denied if unlicensed work is found

💡 Pro Tip: Save your plumber’s number in your phone before winter hits. Many offer free emergency consultations.

For more on plumbing materials and standards, see the Wikipedia entry on plumbing .

FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered

Q: How long does it take for a frozen pipe to burst?

A: It depends on temperature and pipe location. At 20°F, pipes can freeze solid in 6 hours. Bursting typically occurs during thawing, not while frozen—so even if the pipe seems fine, it’s still at high risk.

Q: Can I use a space heater to thaw pipes?

A: Only if placed at least 3 feet away from the pipe and never left unattended. Direct heat can warp PVC or melt solder joints. A hair dryer is safer.

Q: Will homeowners insurance cover burst pipe damage?

A: Usually yes—if the damage is sudden and accidental. However, if you neglected to heat your home or insulate pipes, the claim may be denied. Always document maintenance efforts.

Q: What’s the fastest way to find a reliable emergency plumber?

A: Use platforms like Angi, HomeAdvisor, or your local BBB directory. Verify:

• License number
• 24/7 availability
• Same-day service guarantee
• Reviews mentioning “burst pipe” or “emergency”

Q: Are PEX pipes less likely to burst than copper?

A: Yes. PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is flexible and expands when water freezes, making it up to 3x more resistant to bursting than rigid copper or PVC. Many new homes now use PEX for this reason.

Q: Should I shut off water if I’m leaving town in winter?

A: Absolutely. Drain the system completely or set your thermostat to at least 55°F and open cabinet doors under sinks. Better yet, install a Wi-Fi thermostat and water monitor.

Conclusion: Don’t Gamble With Your Home’s Plumbing

When you hear, “Call the plumber—these pipes are about to burst!”, it’s not an exaggeration—it’s a critical warning. Acting within minutes can mean the difference between a $150 service call and a $20,000 restoration bill. By recognizing early signs, taking immediate action, and investing in prevention, you protect your home, your health, and your finances.

Your next step?
✅ Save this guide
✅ Share it with friends and family on Facebook or Nextdoor
✅ Bookmark your local emergency plumber’s number

Because when it comes to frozen pipes—waiting is the most expensive mistake you can make.