Winter brings freezing temperatures, and with them comes the risk of frozen pipes and heating emergencies. A burst pipe or a failing heating system can leave your home uncomfortable—or worse, cause costly damage. At J. Halligan & Sons Heating and Air Conditioning, we want to help you stay prepared and protect your home from winter’s worst.

Signs Your Pipes May Be Frozen

Catching a frozen pipe early can prevent a costly burst. Look for these warning signs:
✅ No water or slow water flow from faucets
✅ Visible frost on exposed pipes
✅ Strange smells coming from drains (a sign of a blocked pipe)
✅ Unusual noises when turning on the tap

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

If you suspect a pipe is frozen, act fast to thaw it before it bursts:

1. Turn on the faucet – Even a small trickle helps relieve pressure.
2. Apply heat – Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels to slowly thaw the pipe.
3. Open cabinet doors – Allow warm air to reach pipes under sinks.
4. Never use an open flame – This can damage the pipe and create a fire hazard.

If the pipe has already burst, turn off the main water supply immediately and call a professional.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

The best way to deal with frozen pipes is to prevent them in the first place. Here’s how:

✅ Keep the heat on – Maintain at least 55°F, even when away.
✅ Let faucets drip – A slight water flow can prevent freezing.
✅ Insulate pipes – Use pipe insulation or heat tape on exposed areas.
✅ Seal drafts – Close gaps around windows, doors, and pipe openings.

Heating Emergencies: What to Do If Your Heat Stops Working

A failing furnace or boiler in freezing temperatures can be dangerous. Here’s what to check before calling for emergency service:

🔹 Check the thermostat – Ensure it's set to “heat” and has working batteries.
🔹 Inspect the power supply – Look for a tripped breaker or a blown fuse.
🔹 Check the fuel supply – If you use heating oil or propane, make sure you have fuel.
🔹 Reset the system – Some furnaces have a reset button; press it once to see if it restarts.

If your heat still isn’t working, call J. Halligan & Sons Heating and Air Conditioning for emergency service.



Stay Warm with J. Halligan & Sons

Whether you’re dealing with frozen pipes, heating failures, or winter HVAC issues, our team is here to help. We offer 24/7 emergency heating repairs, maintenance, and winterization services to keep your home warm and safe.

📞 Call Now: (610)228-2384