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Troubleshooting Frozen Pipes (and How to Prevent the Next One)

Troubleshooting Frozen Pipes (and How to Prevent the Next One)

01/9/2026

Howdy, folks! The Answer Man here, and if you’ve lived through a Missouri winter or two, you know frozen pipes can sneak up on you faster than a snow squall. One night it’s 40 degrees, the next it’s single digits, and suddenly, your faucet’s bone dry.

If you’re dealing with frozen pipes right now or just want to make sure it never happens again, I’ve got some tips, tricks, and must-haves you can find right here at C&C Farm and Home to keep things flowing all winter long.

First Things First: Are Your Pipes Frozen?

Here are a few telltale signs:

  • No water from a faucet (especially on exterior walls or in unheated areas)
  • Strange smells coming from drains
  • Frost or visible ice on exposed pipes
  • Bulging or cracked sections of pipe

Important: If a pipe has burst, shut off the main water supply immediately and call a plumber. Then swing by C&C for pipe repair supplies and cleanup gear.

How to Safely Thaw Frozen Pipes

If the pipe is just frozen (not broken), here’s how to thaw it:

  1. Open the faucet slightly to relieve pressure and allow thawed water to flow.
  2. Apply heat using a:
    • Hair dryer
    • Space heater (in a safe, open area)
    • Heating pad or warm towels
    • Heat tape (plug-in)
  3. Start nearest the faucet and work back toward the frozen section.

Never use: open flames, propane torches, or boiling water. It’s not worth the risk.

Prevent Frozen Pipes Next Time

Now that you’ve survived the freeze, let’s make sure it doesn’t happen again. Here are some tried-and-true prevention tips:

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

  • Use foam pipe insulation on pipes in crawlspaces, garages, and basements.
  • Foam pipe insulation comes in a range of sizes to fit standard copper, PEX, or PVC lines.

2. Install Heat Tape or Cables

  • These plug-in solutions wrap around pipes and maintain a steady, safe temperature.
  • Perfect for well houses, barns, and unconditioned spaces.

3. Seal Air Leaks

  • Use spray foam or caulk to plug gaps around pipes, vents, and foundation walls.
  • Keeps cold drafts from reaching plumbing.

4. Let Faucets Drip in Extreme Cold

  • A small, steady drip keeps water moving and prevents pressure buildup.

5. Open Cabinet Doors

  • Let warm air reach pipes under kitchen and bathroom sinks, especially along exterior walls.

6. Keep the Thermostat Steady

  • Don’t let your home drop below 55°F, even if you’re away.

Bonus Prep for Well Systems and Outbuildings

  • Use insulated covers for outdoor faucets and spigots
  • Install heated buckets for livestock waterers
  • Keep backup heat sources like portable heaters or heat lamps (use with caution!)

C&C Farm and Home

Frozen pipes are a winter headache no one wants to deal with, but with a little planning and the right gear, you can keep things running smoothly all season.

Stop by C&C Farm and Home in Lebanon or Bolivar to pick up pipe insulation, heat tape, weatherproofing materials, and everything else you need to stay ahead of the freeze. The Answer Man is always here with the gear and guidance to help you get through winter warm, dry, and stress-free!