Frozen water pipes can wreak havoc on your home. One burst pipe can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage in a matter of minutes. That is not even mentioning the possibility of mold mitigation that may follow a burst pipe. For a burst pipe to happen, the water must first freeze and then expand, putting tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it. Pipes that freeze the most often are usually ones that are exposed frequently to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in unheated interior areas in basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets. Here are some ways to prevent your pipes from freezing:
Prevention
The first action you should take in frozen pipe prevention is to locate and identify all valves in your home and to make sure they work correctly. Next, you should identify any potential problem areas, such as any place where your pipes might be vulnerable to the cold. Seal any gaps around your house where freezing air may find its way in and come into contact with your pipes. In severe cold, even the tiniest opening can let in enough cold air to cause a pipe to freeze. You should also make sure to turn off and drain any outside hose bibs.
Be Aware When The Temperature Drops
Make sure you keep watch over those problem areas! Open your kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Whenever the temperature outside dips dangerously below freezing, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through pipes, even at the smallest amount, helps prevent pipes from freezing. You should also keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during the day and at night. If you are going away during colder weather, leave the heat on in your home set to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees fahrenheit.
What To Do If You Have a Frozen Pipe
If you’re experiencing a ‘no flow’ situation, immediately turn off the main water valve to your home and leave the faucets open. Never use any type of flame to try and thaw the pipe. Apply heat in the form of an electric heating pad or towels soaked in hot water until water pressure is restored.
If you cannot thaw the frozen pipe, call a licensed plumber immediately.
If you’re worried about frozen pipes, contact the experts at Air Group! We are certified plumbers with one of the oldest plumbing licenses in the state of New Jersey. Click here to schedule an appointment or call us at 1-800-545-1020.