Preventing Frozen Pipes

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

One of the most annoying problems that come with winter weather is dealing with frozen pipes. If the temperature is cold enough, the water running through your system can freeze, expand, and break your pipes. Location plays a role in what causes the issue, including: pipes exposed to severe cold, water supply pipes in unheated places, or pipes that are placed on the exterior of your home. 

One thing you can do to stop the problem before it starts is to take preventative steps. For example, when the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.

If your pipes are already effected, there are also methods to thaw them. For example, apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.

For more helpful tips and information, check out the American Red Cross below!

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/winter-storm/frozen-pipes.html