Winter in Yukon, Oklahoma is rarely consistent. We often see temperatures drop into the single digits for a few days, followed by a quick “big thaw”, where the temperature jumps back into the 50s. While warmer weather is always a relief, it can actually be the most dangerous time for your plumbing. Most homeowners think that they’re out of the woods when the ice melts, but that’s unfortunately exactly when damage from frozen pipes reveals itself.
When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands with enough force to crack copper, PEX, and steel. However, as long as that water remains frozen, it acts as its own plug. You might not see a single drop of moisture until the ice turns back into liquid. Once the thaw hits, that high-pressure water finds the new crack and begins to flood your home.
If you’ve just survived a cold snap, you’re probably asking the same question as many of your neighbors: “How do I tell if I have a water leak?”
Post-Freeze Checklist: How to Tell if I Have a Water Leak in Yukon, OK
If the weather has recently warmed up, you should perform a thorough plumbing check of your home.
Turn off every faucet and water-using appliance in your home, then find the water meter for your home (usually near the curb) and watch the leak indicator or record the numbers. If the dial is moving while everything is turned off, it’s unfortunately likely that you have a leak.
Walking through your home when everything is quiet can also help you to identify telltale signs like hissing or rushing water. A pipe that has split within the walls of your home will often make a persistent hissing or spraying sound that will be audible in a quiet house.
Check your ceilings and the base of your walls for soft spots or discoloration. A frozen pipe that’s burst inside of the attic or an exterior wall might cause yellowing rings on the drywall or spongy-feeling spots on your floor. If you notice either of these, it’s definitely time to act fast!
Additionally, many Yukon homeowners forget about their outdoor spigots and exterior faucets. If you left a hose attached during the freeze, the pipe may have burst behind the wall. Turn the outdoor faucet on; if the pressure is low or if you hear water spraying inside the wall, shut it off immediately (and call a plumber!)
Professional Leak Detection and Repair
We’ve been tackling Yukon’s toughest winter plumbing issues since 2017. We understand that a big thaw is stressful for homeowners, and our team has the experience and professionalism to find the leak and fix it right the first time.
We utilize advanced tech like acoustic leak detection and thermal imaging to see through your walls without causing any unnecessary damage. We pride ourselves on expert advice and friendly service, helping you navigate the aftermath of unexpected Oklahoma weather.
If you’re struggling with how to tell if you have a water leak in Yukon, Oklahoma, don’t play a guessing game with your home’s foundation and drywall– when in doubt, give us a call!