Expert Tips For Preventing and Thawing Frozen Pipes
Do the pipes in your home tend to freeze up when winter comes around? If so, that irritating problem could turn into a big mess if ice builds up to the point where your pipes burst.
The devastation from flooding inside your home due to a burst pipe can be massive. Carpets and drywall can become ruined, precious belongings and heirlooms can be destroyed, and structural damage can even occur.
Here are a few easy-to-follow tips to help avoid freezing pipes.
Let the Water Run for Awhile
If you turn the hot water tap on and let it run for a little bit, it will help to heat up the pipes. Turn the cold water tap on also. While this may not warm up the pipes, moving the water around in the system from time to time helps to prevent the formation of ice.
Pipes in the Attic or Garage
The attics and garages of most homes aren't usually very well insulated or heated. So, if there are pipes running through those areas, they are the most vulnerable to frost. If you have that situation in your home, make sure to keep your attic windows and garage doors shut to keep the cold air out.
If pipes in your attic or garage freeze frequently, you may want to take the necessary steps to find a permanent solution to the problem. This can include properly insulating the area or having the pipes removed and rerouted to elsewhere in your home.
Heat Trace Cables or Heating Tape
Another excellent solution to problem pipes is heating tape or a heat trace cable. When installed following the manufacturer’s instructions, these electrical devices keep the temperature of your pipes above freezing.
Other things you can do that can help prevent the formation of ice in your pipe include keeping the cabinet doors below your kitchen and bathroom sink open to let the warm air circulate around the pipes, and installing foam insulation around your plumbing.
What to Do When Your Pipes Freeze
If you have frozen pipes that have ruptured, you're looking at a plumbing emergency. If you can do it safely, shut off the main water supply valve to your home and call a licensed plumber immediately.
If you have frozen pipes, but they haven't burst yet, you're in a race against time. You have to thaw that ice before it has a chance to expand and break your pipes. Try using a hair dryer on the affected areas to heat up your pipes. You can also position some space heaters or heat lamps in the surrounding area to warm up the ambient air. Since pipes are often found in close proximity to flammable objects, we don't suggest the use of a torch or other open flame heat up your pipes.
If you have persistent troubles with freezing pipes in your Franklin area home, you can always rely on the expert and friendly service from Kellie Plumbing. Call us today at 317-738-2707 to book your appointment.
