Frozen Pipes
Frozen Pipes | Emergency Plumbing | Plumbing | Oliver Springs
When sub-zero temperatures hit Oliver Springs, even a tiny crack in a frozen pipe can unleash hundreds of gallons of water in minutes. HEP’s certified specialists are on call around the clock, arriving fast with pipe-thawing equipment, thermal imaging, and all the fittings needed to stop the leak before bigger damage sets in. Residents know they can shout “Help!” and get friendly voices, honest pricing, and a crew that treats every flooded crawlspace like their own living room—because that’s what neighbors do.
From emergency plumbing triage to long-term pipe insulation, we tackle every step in-house so you only make one call. Whether it’s 3 a.m. on a holiday or during a weekday cold snap, our trucks roll fully stocked, ready to restore water pressure, dry out walls, and winter-proof your lines for good. Don’t wait for ice to melt and mold to grow; reach out to HEP today and put the freeze on frozen-pipe worries.
FAQs
What should I do first if I think my pipes are frozen in Oliver Springs?
Shut off the home’s main water valve right away to limit pressure and potential flooding, then open the affected faucets to relieve any remaining pressure. Do not use an open flame to thaw pipes, as this can start a fire or overheat the line. Call our 24/7 emergency plumbing team immediately—we are based near downtown Oliver Springs and can guide you by phone until a technician arrives.
How fast can your emergency plumbers reach my home in Oliver Springs?
Because we station technicians inside Roane and Anderson Counties, our average arrival time within Oliver Springs city limits is 45–60 minutes, even during peak freezing events. We dispatch crews around the clock, including weekends and holidays, and our trucks are stocked with thawing machines, pipe heaters, fittings, and replacement sections so most repairs are completed in a single visit.
Can frozen pipes actually burst, and what kind of damage can that cause?
Yes. When water freezes it expands by roughly 9%, exerting forces of 2,000 psi or more—easily enough to split copper, PEX, or PVC lines. Once the pipe thaws, water can gush out at full supply pressure, soaking insulation, drywall, flooring, and personal belongings. In Oliver Springs’ below-freezing nights, a single burst can dump dozens of gallons per minute, leading to structural damage and mold growth if not handled promptly.
How do your plumbers safely thaw and repair frozen pipes?
We start with a thermal camera to locate the ice blockage, then use UL-listed electric pipe-thawing machines or low-temperature heat blankets that warm the pipe gradually and evenly. If the line is accessible, we may add gentle infrared heaters or warm-water circulation. After flow is restored, we pressure-test the line, inspect for hairline cracks, and replace any damaged sections before fully restoring water service.
What preventive measures can I take to stop pipes from freezing again?
• Add foam or fiberglass insulation sleeves to exposed pipes in crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls. • Install electric heat tape with an automatic thermostat on vulnerable lines. • Keep your thermostat set to at least 55 °F when away and open sink-cabinet doors so warm air reaches plumbing. • Allow a pencil-thin drip from the cold-water tap on the coldest nights to keep water moving. • Disconnect garden hoses and install frost-proof outdoor spigots. We can winterize your entire plumbing system each fall if you prefer professional help.
Is frozen-pipe repair covered by my homeowners insurance?
Most policies cover sudden and accidental water damage from a burst pipe, meaning cleanup and structural repairs are often included. However, the cost to thaw pipes or fix long-neglected plumbing may be excluded if the insurer deems the problem preventable. We recommend reviewing your policy’s “water damage” and “freezing” clauses. Our office supplies detailed invoices and photos to support your claim, and we can speak directly with adjusters upon request.