What To Do To Prevent Damage From Frozen Water Pipes
Blogs
Ideally, it is best not to expose water pipes to subfreezing temperatures and place them only in heated areas. Keeping them out of attics, crawl spaces, or nearby outside walls will be preventing pipes from freezing. In a new building, proper placement should be designed into the project.
In existing homes, a construction company may be able to reroute susceptible to freezing water pipes to protected areas, although it's not the most practical solution. If it's not an option, vulnerable pipes should be fitted with insulation sleeves or wrapping that slows the heat transfer. This insulation prevents the heat in the water to be transferred to subfreezing air. It's important not to leave gaps that expose the pipe to cold air: the more insulation the better. They will unfreeze water pipes. And the added protection is worth the extra cost.
Letting the Water Run
Letting the faucet drip just a bit during extremely cold weather can prevent frozen pipes from bursting. Although a small flow of water does not prevent frozen water pipes, it provides relief from the excessive pressure that builds up between the faucet and the ice blockage in frozen pipes in house. A dripping faucet wastes some water, though only the vulnerable to freezing water pipes should be left with the tiny water flow. Even the smallest drip will provide pressure relief when needed.
If you suspect frozen water pipes
If you open a faucet and no water comes out, you can suspect frozen pipes in house. You should call a professional company to take care of the frozen water pipes and begin thawing frozen pipes. Don't try to attempt thawing frozen pipes with an open flame; this will damage the pipe and may even start a building fire. Thawing frozen pipes may be performed with a handheld hairdryer. You should slowly apply heat, starting close to the faucet of the pipe with the faucet open and working toward the coldest section of the frozen water pipes. You should not use electrical appliances while standing in water - this may cause electrocution.
Going out of town
When you're away from home for an extended period during the cold weather, you should not set your thermostat below 65F. A lower temperature may save on the heating bill, but could cause a disaster if a cold spell strikes and causes freezing water pipes. Water damage restoration is much more expensive than an increased heating bill.
