It’s winter and nobody likes frozen pipes! This chilly season affects us all, but for those of us in areas where snowfall and freezing temperatures are common, it’s a tricky period to maintain our home. This is because cold weather can cause our pipes to freeze and potentially burst due to the extra pressure created. So, how do we prevent our water pipes from freezing during the winter months? This blog by Allied Restoration will explain exactly that, as well as how to recognize when your pipes are freezing. We’ll also cover what to do if they do freeze, so you and your family can have a safe winter without any damage to your home.
Signs That Your Pipes Are Freezing
The good news is that your pipes will likely give you some signs that they are either in the process of freezing or have frozen! Keep a lookout for the following telltale signs:
- If you turn your water on and barely any comes out
- Frost on any exposed pipes
- Odors coming from drains or faucets.
These are all signs that your pipes might be frozen.
What To Do If You Have Frozen Pipes
If you have frozen pipes, there are several ways to alleviate the issue before they burst or break. These include:
- Turn the water off at the main valve
- Turn on a faucet to boost water flow to melt the ice
- Heat the frozen section of the pipe with a hairdryer or some other kind of heating device
If your pipes have burst, it’s time to call in a plumber to help with the issue. This is so you can avoid any further damage to your home like a flood, for example.
How To Avoid Frozen Pipes
Of course, you’ll want to avoid a frozen pipe altogether if you can! Read ahead if you want some simple tips to help you get through winter without having to worry about frozen pipes. These tips include:
- Insulate your home
- Do not lower the thermostat if unseasonably cold
- Keep cabinet doors open that contain plumbing elements
- Close your garage doors
- Let faucets drip
- Cover any crawl spaces with cut foam
There are few things more frustrating in winter than blocked pipes. Also, if left too long, they can cause serious damage to your home. To avoid this happening and have a safe winter period this season, be sure to plan ahead and prepare your pipes. If they do freeze over, take a note of the signs in this blog and how to melt the ice.
And, as always, you can talk to one of our friendly team at Allied Restoration if you need advice or help on your water pipes.
Allied Restoration is an IICRC (Institute Of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification), Certified Firm. Our Senior Project Manager, Wilma Fogler, was the first person in the State of Maryland to achieve the IICRC Master Water Restorer Certification. Allied is Licensed, Bonded, Insured, and a member in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. 