How Can I Tell If My Pipes Are Frozen or Have Burst?

Telling the difference between frozen and burst pipes isn’t always obvious—especially during Denver winters when pipes can freeze overnight and fail once temperatures rise.

Signs your pipes may be frozen include:

• Little or no water coming from faucets
• A sudden drop in water pressure
• Frost or condensation on exposed pipes
• Whistling or unusual sounds when turning on water

Signs a pipe may have burst include:

• Water pooling under sinks, near walls, or in ceilings
• Damp drywall, bubbling paint, or stains
• The sound of running water when no fixtures are on
• A noticeable increase in water usage

In many cases, pipes actually burst after freezing — when ice begins to thaw and pressure is released. This is why damage is often discovered hours or even days after extremely cold weather.

If you’re unsure whether a pipe is frozen or already burst, it’s safest to call a professional plumber right away. A licensed technician can identify the problem, limit further damage, and make the necessary repairs before a small issue becomes a major one.

For Denver-area homes and businesses, early professional assessment is key to avoiding extensive water damage and emergency repairs.