Winter is a time of joy and celebration for many people, but it can also bring some serious challenges for homeowners. One of the most common and costly problems that can occur during the cold season is frozen pipes. Frozen pipes can cause water damage, mold growth, and even structural damage to your home.
Winter always demands property maintenance for all homeowners affected. It is a major issue when the temperature starts to drop. You can only imagine what would happen next when the pipes start to freeze. Know that frozen pipes are so dangerous and can cause huge inconvenience to you. A very obvious reason is the cut-off of the water supply. It is an obvious need for every household and a very necessary need daily. Frozen pipes do not stop only from lack of water supply. The worst-case scenario is it could also break leaving you with an even bigger problem on a larger scale. When pipes start to break it only means the water supply is cut off which will greatly affect your daily tasks.
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
Pipes freeze when the water inside them turns into ice due to exposure to low temperatures. This can happen to any pipe that is not well insulated or heated, especially those that run through unheated areas of the home, such as attics, basements, garages, or crawl spaces. Pipes that are located near exterior walls or windows are also more prone to freezing.
When water freezes, it expands and exerts pressure on the walls of the pipe. This pressure can cause the pipe to crack or burst, releasing water into your home. A burst pipe can cause extensive water damage to your floors, walls, ceilings, furniture, and belongings. It can also create a health hazard by promoting mold growth and contaminating your water supply.
How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing?
Here are some steps to follow if you have a frozen pipe:
- Insulate your pipes
You can use foam pipe insulation, heat tape, or heat cables to wrap your pipes and keep them warm. Pay special attention to pipes that are exposed to cold air or located in unheated areas of the home. - Keep your faucets dripping
A small trickle of water can help prevent ice from forming inside the pipes. This is especially helpful for pipes that are prone to freezing, such as those that run along exterior walls or under sinks. - Open your cabinet doors
This allows warm air to circulate the pipes under your sinks and prevent them from freezing. - Keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature
Avoid lowering your thermostat at night or when you are away from home. A sudden drop in temperature can cause your pipes to freeze. If you are going on a vacation, set your thermostat to at least 55°F and ask someone to check on your home regularly. - Seal any gaps or cracks
Caulk or weatherstrip any openings that allow cold air to enter your home, such as around windows, doors, vents, or pipes. This will help keep your pipes and your home warmer.
What to Do If You Have a Frozen Pipe?
If you suspect that you have a frozen pipe, you should act quickly to minimize the damage
Here are some steps to follow if you have a frozen pipe:
- Turn off the main water supply
This will prevent more water from entering the pipe and reduce the pressure on it. Locate the main water shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to close it. If you don’t know where the valve is, contact your plumber or water company for assistance.
- Open the faucet
This will allow any water that is trapped in the pipe to escape and relieve the pressure. Turn on both the hot and cold taps of the affected faucet and let the water run until it is clear and steady.
- Thaw the pipe
You can use a hair dryer, a heat lamp, a space heater, or a hot towel to apply heat to the frozen section of the pipe. Start from the faucet and work your way toward the frozen area. Do not use an open flame, such as a blowtorch, a candle, or a lighter, as this can damage the pipe or cause a fire. Be careful not to touch the pipe with your bare hands, as it can be very cold or hot.
- Check for leaks
Once the pipe is thawed, inspect it for any cracks or holes. If you find any signs of damage, turn off the water supply again and call a professional plumber to repair the pipe. If the pipe is intact, turn on the water supply and test the faucet for proper flow and pressure.
Contact ServiceMaster of Savannah
Since 2012 the trusted team of ServiceMaster has been providing dependable and highest-quality water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, storm restoration, mold remediation, and cleaning services to the residents and business owners of Savannah, Georgia, and surrounding areas. ServiceMaster of Savannah is a full-service emergency restoration company with the dedication and community loyalty to be available to our neighbors 24/7 with a fast response to your calls and needs.
Call ServiceMaster of Savannah at (912) 244-6966 or message us online to learn more about our services and request a free estimate.
