What to do About Frozen Pipes

What are the problems associated with frozen pipes?

When pipes thaw out after freezing, everything may appear to return to normal but there are two problems that may occur. First, a frozen pipe will restrict the flow of water, and that means your access to water for shower, washing of dishes and clothes, and cooking will be restricted.

Secondly, water expands when it freezes, this expansion can rupture a pipe when there is no extra space to accommodate the expansion. The force of an expanding water can create problems for the pipe especially when the water turns into ice and exert up to 2000 lbs. of pressure per square inch.

What types of pipes are most vulnerable to freezing?

Those pipes mostly exposed to freezing temperatures are the most vulnerable to freezing. These include the outdoor hose bibs, water sprinkler lines, swimming pool water supply pipes, plumbing lines running through unheated interior areas such as the basement, attic, garage, crawl spaces, and sink cabinets, and the pipes that extend along the exterior walls without insulation. You could have probably taken certain steps toward the prevention of frozen pipes; those preventive steps will help you the costly repairs and messy situations arising from such frozen pipes.

How to detect if you have frozen pipes in your home

One of the biggest signs of a frozen pipe is when water is not coming out of the faucet. Sometimes, water may trickle out, but you should look for other signs of frozen pipes; Extremely cold water and pipes caused by exposure to extremely cold temperatures. Secondly, the development of frost on exposed pipes such as those under the kitchen and bathroom sinks, are signs that your pipes are frozen.

What to do if you have frozen pipes

You need to take actions as soon as you discover frozen pipes by contacting Mr. Rooter Plumbing professional plumbers.

You need to turn off the main water line into the house, and then pay closer attention to the frozen pipes if there are bursts, leaks, and so on. Turning off the main water line will prevent wastages of gallons of water.

The next step is to open the faucet being fed by the frozen pipe. This will help reduce the pressure and allow thawed ice to run out. In case the frozen pipe is located behind a finished wall, you can apply some heat by turning on the thermostat or simply use an infrared lamp to heat up the pipe safely. Hairdryer, heat lamp, and an electric heating pad are some of the heating appliances you can use.

Make sure you check for other places that are frozen and make sure you thaw the ice out and turn off the main water line. If you are still finding it difficult to handle frozen pipes, simply contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing.