Winter in New England doesn’t hold back. Temperatures drop fast. Wind chills sink even lower and homes across the area feel the deep freeze. While you’re layering sweaters and cranking up the heat, your plumbing system is facing its own winter battle. Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of winter water damage and they don’t always burst right away. Many show warning signs first so knowing what to watch for can save you thousands.
At Maffei Services, we help homeowners catch frozen pipe problems early and fix them fast. Here’s how to tell if your pipes may be freezing and what to do next.
Why Pipes Freeze in the First Place
Water expands when it freezes. If pipes sit in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, garages, or exterior walls, they’re especially vulnerable. Add poor insulation or strong outdoor drafts, and freezing becomes far more likely. Homes in older neighborhoods throughout the North Shore and Merrimack Valley often face higher risk due to aging plumbing and less insulation. And once ice forms inside a pipe, pressure builds quickly. That’s when bursts happen.
Common Signs Your Pipes May Be Freezing
Frozen pipes don’t always announce themselves with a dramatic leak. Many issues start quietly. Here’s what to watch for.
Little or No Water Flow. Turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out. Or nothing at all. That’s often the first red flag. Ice may be blocking the pipe.
Frost on Visible Pipes. If you see frost or condensation on exposed pipes, especially in basements or garages, freezing may already be underway.
Strange Smells from Drains or Faucets. Blocked pipes trap odors. If you notice unpleasant smells coming from sinks or tubs, frozen lines could be preventing proper drainage.
Unusual Sounds. Whistling. Banging. Gurgling. These noises may indicate pressure changes caused by ice forming inside your plumbing.
Visible Bulging in Pipes. Pipes may swell or appear misshapen as ice expands inside. This is a serious warning sign. A burst could be imminent.
What to Do Right Away
If you suspect freezing, time matters. Here’s what you can safely do while waiting for professional help.
- Turn on affected faucets slightly to relieve pressure
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air in
- Raise your thermostat a few degrees
- Use a space heater near exposed pipes (never unattended)
Avoid open flames, never use torches or blow dryers on pipes, and don’t ignore the problem. Frozen pipes often burst when they begin to thaw.
How Maffei Services Helps When Pipes Freeze
When homeowners across the North Shore, Merrimack Valley, and Southern NH call Maffei Services, we respond quickly.
Our licensed plumbers will:
- Locate the frozen section
- Safely thaw the pipe
- Inspect for cracks or leaks
- Repair damaged piping
- Check nearby lines for risk areas
If a pipe has already burst, we move fast to stop water flow and minimize damage.
Call Maffei Services for Winter Plumbing Support
If your pipes are freezing, or you want to prevent it before the next cold snap, Maffei Services is here to help. We proudly serve homeowners throughout the North Shore and Merrimack Valley of Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire with fast, reliable plumbing care. Our team is ready to protect your home, your plumbing, and your peace of mind.
Call today to schedule service or request a winter plumbing inspection. Because when temperatures drop, your pipes shouldn’t be the next problem.
