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Freezing Temps.. Freezing Pipes what you need to know

2/12/2016 (Permalink)

Frozen pipe

Frozen pipes are dangerous, costly and very terrifying. If you have ever lived through a burst pipe due to frozen water, you know just how damaging and devastating they can be. If you have not,  follow the steps below to help prevent them. Should you have a pipe burst please make sure you call someone immediately .In as little as two days you will start to get mold growth creating an even larger issue

What causes frozen pipes?

The recent extreme cold temperatures coming in have will create an increased risk for a frozen or burst pipe. As the temperatures drop, water in your pipes starts turning to ice. The problem will be not when it is frozen but on Monday and Tuesday when the temperatures start to warm up and the ice melts and water starts to flow out of the cracks in the pipes.

Ice causes pressure and blockage. Over time, the pressure can cause a pip to burst. This ends water flow to fixtures, causes leaks and will end in a major damage not only to the pipe but to your home or office. It does not matter what the pipe is made out of the increased pressure occurs to all pipes, including plastic, copper or steel.

Even a tiny crack in your plumbing line can release more than 250 gallons of water in a single day. That much water gushing out of your plumbing system can cause significant damage and high repair costs. Any delay in remedying the situation can result in a more costly delay.  

How can I prevent frozen pipes?

  • Open the cabinet doors under your sinks and in storage areas to allow heat from the room to circulate around un-insulated pipes.
  • Allow a trickle of water to drip overnight; however, be careful not to run the water into a drain line that is exposed to the extreme cold because that line might freeze.
  • Insulate all pipes in unheated areas or against un-insulated outside walls, in garages or crawl spaces.
  • Apply heat tape or thermostat-controlled heat cables around pipes that are exposed and prone to freezing.
  • If you are leaving for the a vacation it is very important that you make sure your heat is turned on and is set no lower than 55 degrees.

    • What should I do if I have frozen pipes?

    Sometimes, despite the best efforts, things happen. If you know or suspect you a problem with frozen pipes, here are some immediate steps to take:

  • Shut off the water main to reduce pressure on frozen pipes and minimize flooding if the pipes burst.
  • If you don’t know where your water main is or have the tools to shut off the main, now would be a good time to get prepared.
  • Do not use an open flame to thaw your pipes. If your pipe is exposed, you can try a hair dryer.
  • If you suspect frozen pipes, contact your plumbing experts right away.
  • If you notice slower water flow that may mean your pipes are starting to freeze, call a plumber immediately. Typically, issues like this can be resolved before any damage occurs.

    •  STAY SAFE, WARM, AND HAPPY!!!

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