Best Plumbing Company in Altoona, PA 16602 - Eckels Plumbing & Heating

Absolutely. A key part of our Altoona plumbing inspection is testing all shutoff valves under your sinks, behind toilets, and at your main water line. We check for corrosion, mineral buildup, and smooth operation. Catching a stiff or leaking valve early allows us to repair or replace it before it seizes or breaks completely, preventing a messy and damaging water emergency in your home.

In our Altoona climate, pipes in unheated spaces like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls are most vulnerable. Warning signs include a significantly reduced water flow on very cold days or frost visible on exposed pipes. Our plumbing inspection specifically evaluates these high-risk areas and we can recommend solutions like pipe insulation or heat tape to protect your home.

First, safely turn off the main water shutoff valve to your house to prevent pressure buildup and a potential burst when the pipe thaws. Then, gently apply heat to the frozen section using a hairdryer or space heater (never an open flame). If you cannot locate the freeze, it's behind a wall, or you're unsure, call Eckels immediately. Our emergency team can safely thaw the pipe and check for any damage before restoring your water.