Prevent Frozen Pipes

1/5/2017 (Permalink)

Frozen and broken pipes can be prevented.

Winter has arrived! Don't let the cold impact your home’s plumbing.

Pipes freeze due to a one or a combination of three reasons:
1) sudden drops in temperature
2) poor insulation
3) thermostats set too low.

A 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can spew up to 250 gallons of water a day, causing flooding, serious structural damage, and the immediate potential for mold. This disaster can be prevented by taking a few simple steps.

Before The Cold

• Insulate your home's pipes. Exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing. Remember: The more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be.
• Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where pipes are located. Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes, and use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.
• Be certain to disconnect garden hoses. If possible, use an indoor valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets.

During The Cold

Damage is still possible even if you’ve taken preventative steps. Here are a few more steps you can take:

• Let warm water drip overnight, preferably from a faucet on an outside wall.
• Keep your thermostat set at the same temperature during day and night. Turning the thermostat down raises the risk of pipe freezing in the overnight cold.
• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

If You Are Lucky Enough to Leave The Cold

• Set the thermostat no lower than 55°F.
• Ask a friend to check on your house daily.
• If possible, shut off and drain the water system. Please be aware if you have a fire suppression sprinkler system in your home, this may deactivate the system.

If Your Pipes Freeze

Don’t panic. Frozen pipes don’t necessarily mean broken pipes.

• Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame. It is a fire hazard.
• If no water comes out of your taps, leave the faucets in the on position and call a licensed plumber.
• If your water pipes have already burst, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve in the house, but leave the water faucets turned on.
• Call SERVPRO^® of Dearborn

Our locally owned and operated 24/7 service is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457