When the temperature drops below zero, your plumbing system becomes vulnerable—fast. Pipes can freeze, crack, and burst in a matter of hours, and a small leak can turn into major water damage if not addressed immediately.
If you’re dealing with a leak—or suspect one—during extreme cold, here’s exactly what to do to minimize damage, stay safe, and protect your home.
Step 1: Shut Off the Main Water Supply Immediately
If you see water leaking from a wall, ceiling, floor, or pipe:
- Locate your main water shut-off valve (usually in the basement, utility room, or near the water meter).
- Turn it clockwise to shut off the water to your entire house.
- If you can’t find it, call a plumber or leak detection service right away.
Pro Tip: Every homeowner should know where their main shutoff valve is before an emergency.
Step 2: Turn Off Electricity If Water Is Near Outlets
If the leak is near electrical outlets, your fuse box, or ceiling lights:
- Do not touch wet appliances or wiring.
- If safe, shut off power to the affected area from your electrical panel.
- If unsafe, leave the home and call an electrician or emergency service.
Step 3: Identify the Source (If You Can)
During below-zero temperatures, common culprits include:
- Burst pipes in attics, crawl spaces, or exterior walls
- Frozen hose bibs or outdoor faucets that weren’t winterized
- Slab or foundation leaks from shifting soil and frost
- Hot water line leaks (often show up as warm floor spots)
If the source isn’t visible, that’s where non-invasive leak detection comes in (see below).
Step 4: Call First Class Leak Detection
Don’t start cutting drywall or breaking tile. A professional leak detection company like First Class Leak Detection can:
- Pinpoint the exact location of the leak using acoustic, thermal, or tracer gas tools
- Avoid unnecessary damage to floors or walls
- Help you find a qualified plumber or restoration contractor for fast repairs
- Provide documentation for insurance claims
Prevent It from Happening Again
Once the emergency is handled:
- Insulate vulnerable pipes in attics, basements, garages, and crawl spaces
- Install smart water monitors or leak alarms for early warnings
- Keep interior temps above 55°F—even if you’re away
- Disconnect garden hoses and winterize exterior spigots in the fall
- Consider letting faucets drip in extreme cold to prevent freezing
We’re Built for Cold-Weather Leak Detection
At First Class Leak Detection, we work through the harshest NJ winters to help homeowners find and stop cold-weather leaks—fast. Using advanced, non-invasive tools, we locate the source without unnecessary demolition and provide clear steps to get it repaired.
Facing a leak during freezing weather?
Don’t wait until it turns into a flood.
Book your leak inspection today with First Class Leak Detection at 732-253-4900—New Jersey’s trusted leak detection experts.
