In the Windy City—where the January low averages at only 18.8°F—frozen pipes are a major concern. Freezing temperatures can quickly cause the water supply to expand, leading to cracked and burst pipes that cause water damage and are difficult to repair. Instead, prevent frozen pipes before they become an issue by investing in Eco Tec Insulation’s expert insulation and repair services.
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FROZEN PIPE PREVENTION FOR EVERY TYPE OF PROPERTY
Residential Homes
When you're a busy homeowner, it's easy to forget about winter plumbing maintenance. However, burst pipes are the last thing you want to deal with. Eco Tec Insulation offers residential insulation services for both pipes and other areas of your home to prevent freezing and reduce heating costs. Already suffered an incident? Don't worry, we also cover fast, effective frozen pipe repair, water damage remediation, and other plumbing fixes.
Commercial Businesses
Whether you're a restaurant, office, or retail space facing winter plumbing issues, we'll assess your water pipes for proper flow, insulation, and integrity. Then, to prevent pipes from freezing long-term, we'll come up with personalized solutions based on your business needs. Need updated commercial insulation? We've got you covered!
Industrial Spaces
From industrial heating pads and heat tape to full insulation overhauls, we'll keep your water flowing in even the most extreme winter conditions. Trust Eco Tec Insulation for tailored industrial solutions, scaled to keep your extensive system of pipes safe.
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The Frozen Pipe Prevention Process
Discover the key steps involved in preventing frozen pipes
Our team of professionals identify poorly insulated or damaged pipes and assess risk levels based on layout, existing insulation, and temperature exposure.
Unheated spaces or poorly insulated pipes are targeted for new, high-performance insulation installation. This helps maintain above-freezing temperatures during cold Chicago winters.
A consistent thermostat setting—albeit a warm one—helps you avoid frozen pipes. We keep things consistent by sealing gaps and cracks that leak freezing air near pipes (for instance, around kitchen and bathroom cabinets).
If any pipes have already frozen, we’ll do our best to minimize damage by relieving pressure in frozen areas. Already cracked or burst? We’ll work hard to safely remove damaged sections and replace them with new, high-quality piping.
Chicago’s cold weather is an annual inevitability, but there are ways you can reduce the risk of frozen pipes long-term. Improvements like smart temperature monitors, pipe wrap, or continued maintenance can all prevent costly repairs in the future.
Don't Wait! Frozen Pipe Warning Signs
Does your pipe have a frozen section? Or has it already burst? Here are some signs it’s time to call Eco Tec Insulation:
Lack of water
Frozen pipes disrupt water flow, preventing it from reaching the faucet end. Note that every house has a unique plumbing configuration, so some areas may have running water, while others don't.
Bulging pipes
Water expands when it freezes, which causes tremendous pressure around high risk areas. You may notice a bulge where water is freezing.
Strange sounds
If you start hearing banging or gurgling noises, it could indicate ice or excess air bumbling through your pipes.
Cracks
Small surface cracks, especially when accompanied by condensation, can be a sign of structural damage caused by freezing.
Sewage smell
A frozen sewer line can cause foul odors to escape your faucets, toilet, or bathtub.
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Frequently Asked Questions
If you notice any of the signs above, you’ll want to locate your water shut-off valve so you can turn off your water supply immediately. This will help prevent potential bursts. If flooding has already occurred, mitigate further damage by doing what you can to contain it.
Then, contact Eco Tec Insulation asap for emergency thaw, insulation, repair, or water damage restoration services.
No, frozen pipes don’t always crack or burst, but the rapid expansion of freezing water always poses a major risk. Even if there’s no visible damage right away, repeated freezing can weaken pipes over time. If it’s an easy fix—don’t wait. Call Eco Tec Insulation at (847) 675-1400.
Signs of a burst pipe include:
- Visible water stains or puddles
- Dripping sounds behind walls or cabinets
- Sudden drops in water pressure
- An unexpectedly-high water bill
Insulation is one of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes during winter months. It maintains a stable indoor temperature and shields your pipes from drafts below 20°F. Eco Tec Insulation is your insulation expert, working to improve attics, crawl spaces, basements and more.
There are several ways you can prevent frozen pipes using simple techniques, including:
- Drain exterior water lines to prevent the buildup of pressure.
- Find ways to better insulate unheated areas, such as sleeve-type insulation.
- Leave your faucets dripping when the temperature dips below freezing.
- Open cabinets and other areas that can retain cold air.
- Utilize space heaters in particularly drafty areas.