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Capps Plumbing & Sewer

Frozen Pipe Repair

Pipe Repair and Replacement in and around Wheeling, IL

Damaged pipes can lead to serious damage and costly repairs.

  • Same-day where available
  • Written quote before work
  • Licensed, bonded and insured
Schedule service
You might be seeingFrost on a visible pipeA strange odor from a drain blocked by iceA run along an exterior wall with little insulationNo water, or a trickle, from a fixture in cold weather

Frozen pipes do not have to be a winter tradition

Water expands as it freezes, and the pressure it puts on a pipe wall does not care how strong the pipe is. Hose bibs, sprinkler lines, pipes in unheated basements, garages and attics, and any run along a poorly insulated exterior wall are the usual victims of a Chicagoland winter.

A frozen pipe that is caught early can be thawed. One that is left can burst, and a single burst line running four to eight gallons a minute can do tens of thousands of dollars in damage. We thaw water lines day or night.

What frozen pipe repair includes

Thawing, repair and prevention for the next cold snap.

  • Thawing of frozen water and drain lines, any hour
  • Repair of pipes that have burst from freezing
  • Winterization of hose bibs, sprinkler systems and exposed piping
  • Advice on the insulation and air sealing that keeps it from happening again

What the appointment looks like

  1. Locate the freeze

    No water at one fixture or several, and frost on a visible pipe, tell us where the ice is. Keep the faucet open so meltwater has somewhere to go.

  2. The price before we start

    Thawing, and any repair the thaw reveals, are quoted before the work begins.

  3. Thaw and inspect

    The line is thawed safely, without an open flame, and inspected along its length for the split that a freeze often leaves.

  4. Prevent the repeat

    The technician shows you the exposed runs and what to insulate, drain or seal before the next freeze.

Three situations cover most calls

A frozen-pipe call is one of three jobs.

  • A thaw

    A frozen line thawed and checked, with no damage found.

  • A thaw and a repair

    The freeze has split the pipe; the section is replaced once it is thawed.

  • Winterization

    A fall visit to drain the sprinkler system, protect hose bibs and insulate the runs that freeze.

When to call for frozen pipe repair

  • No water, or a trickle, from a fixture in cold weather
  • Frost on a visible pipe
  • A strange odor from a drain blocked by ice
  • Pipes in a basement, crawl space, attic or garage that is unheated
  • A run along an exterior wall with little insulation
  • A hose bib or sprinkler line that was not drained in the fall

Why customers call us for this

Day or night
Frozen pipes are thawed whenever they freeze. An independent, local, family-owned company that answers its phone at 2 a.m.
Since 1996
Decades of Chicagoland winters and the pipes they have frozen, in the North and Northwest Suburbs.
Prevention, not just repair
You leave the visit knowing which pipes are at risk and what a trickle of water, an open cabinet and some insulation will do.

Customers on this service

  • We had frozen pipes in the kitchen, no water. Capps responded quickly, came out the same day, did a wonderful job. Thank you Hunter C.
    Janet L. · via Google
  • Tim and crew came out to fix my kitchen sink pipes that were damaged due to the recent freeze. I was really impressed with the timeliness, professionalism, and thoroughness the team showed in getting the fix in place.
    Adam A. · via Google
  • Will came out and explained everything to me in a clear and professional manner. He quickly fixed the problem, and the price was very reasonable. I've been using Capps for about 5 years now, and I'm very happy with the service. So far I haven't met a technician that wasn't polite and helpful.
    Brian B. · Prospect Heights, IL · via Google
  • My kitchen sink got clogged right before a holiday. I called at 9 am and by 11 my problem was solved. Fast, professional, clean. Thank you technician Alex C.
    Joanna C. · via Google
  • Will was on time and very friendly. He knew what he was doing and gave me pointers on what to do if my tankless hot water heater stops working again. Would definitely recommend
    Amanda B. · via Google
  • Capps Plumbing does superior work. I have had several big projects and they completed them in good time and perfectly.
    Julianne H. · via Google

Common Causes of Broken Pipes:

Water spraying from a split in a copper pipe

Damaged pipes can lead to serious damage and costly repairs. We offer comprehensive pipe repair and replacement services.

Whether you need pipes repaired, replaced, or installed, or want to schedule a maintenance appointment, contact our team of expert technicians.

Frozen Pipes

As water is exposed to below-freezing temperatures, it turns into ice. The pressure of the expanding ice causes pipes to break. We recommend annual maintenance before winter to ensure your pipes are ready for extreme cold. If your pipes do freeze and burst, we’re here to help.

Tree Roots

Older neighborhoods in our area typically have mature trees that are near water lines. Roots that grow into water lines cause blockages that can lead to serious problems. No matter how strong the pipe is, if a tree root grows around it, it will burst. Annual maintenance such as power rodding or hydrojetting is important to keep pipes clear.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains and sewer lines can lead to water pressure accumulating in your pipes, causing ruptures or leaks. Again, annual maintenance such as power rodding or hydrojetting will help keep your pipes clear.

Old Pipes

As time goes on, a pipe may burst just because it is too old and worn out. Over the past 50 years, copper has been the most common pipe used in residential and commercial buildings. Copper is rust-resistant and very durable. However, that doesn’t mean it’s completely immune to problems. Formaldehyde and chlorine particles create a buildup that causes corrosion, which eats away at your pipes. This eventually creates leaks that then need repairing. But if repairs aren’t enough, then re-piping is your best option.

Capps Pipe Repair Services

  • Black & Underground Gas Piping
  • Cast Iron Piping
  • Copper Piping
  • Drain-Waste-Vent (DWV)
  • Galvanized Piping
  • PVC (Plastic) Piping

Don’t Let Frozen Pipes Become a Winter Tradition!

Frozen pipes are an all too familiar problem for many homeowners during Chicagoland winters. If not taken care of right away, frozen pipes may burst, which leads to major damage. Just one burst pipe running at four to eight gallons of water a minute can do tens of thousands of dollars in damage. Thankfully, you can turn to us to thaw frozen water lines anytime – day or night.

Since 1996, we have helped homeowners with all types of plumbing repairs. As an independent, local, family-owned business, we are invested in the communities we serve and are committed to providing the best customer service possible 24/7.

Why It’s a Problem

Water expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on your pipes. No matter the strength of the pipe, expanding water can cause pipes to break.

Pipes That Freeze Most Often

  • Exposed pipes such as hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.
  • Pipes in unheated interior areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, or garages.
  • Pipes that run against an exterior wall that has little or no insulation.

Warning Signs

  • Low water pressure
  • Visible front on pipes
  • Strange odors from backup due to a frozen pipe blockage
  • Turn on a faucet to allow a small trickle of cold water to run to keep water moving through your pipes.
  • Open the under-sink cabinet to keep warm air circulating.
  • Put a fan near your pipes and cabinets to keep air moving.
  • Drain (winterize) your sprinkler system in the fall.
  • Insulate external or exposed pipes.
  • Weather seal and weatherstrip crawl spaces, basement doors, and windows.
  • Make sure your attic has enough insulation.
  • Consider replacing draft doors and windows.

Capps Plumbing & Sewer Frozen Pipe Services

  • Burst Pipe Repairs
  • Drain Line Thawing
  • Water Line Thawing
  • Winterization

Frozen Pipe Repair questions

What causes pipes to freeze?

Pipes freeze when temperatures drop below freezing and water inside the pipe turns to ice. As the water freezes, it expands and creates pressure inside the pipe, which can lead to cracks or bursts.

How can I tell if I have a frozen pipe?

Common signs include little to no water flow, low water pressure, visible frost on pipes, or unusual odors coming from drains due to blockages. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to act quickly to avoid further damage.

What should I do if my pipes freeze?

If you suspect a frozen pipe, turn on the faucet to relieve pressure and avoid bursting, and contact a professional plumber right away. Frozen pipes can quickly lead to costly water damage if not handled properly.

Can frozen pipes burst?

Yes, frozen pipes can easily burst because water expands as it freezes, putting extreme pressure on the pipe walls. Even a small rupture can release gallons of water per minute and cause significant property damage.

How can I prevent my pipes from freezing?

You can prevent frozen pipes by insulating exposed pipes, keeping your home heated, allowing faucets to drip during extreme cold, and sealing any drafts around pipes. Regular maintenance and winterization are also key to avoiding issues. We also recommend turning off the water supply whenever the property is empty or vacant for an extended period of time.

Read up before you call about frozen pipe repair

Need frozen pipe repair today?

24/7 emergency service. Licensed, local and dependable since 1996.

847-268-3600