Frozen pipes are a homeowners’ worst nightmare, and here in the Wasatch Front, they’re a huge concern.
If left alone, frozen pipes can be devastating to your home. They can burst and flood your property and lead to extensive and costly water damage. While replacing the broken plumbing will only cost a few hundred dollars; however, the repercussions of the substantial water damage can cost tens of thousands of dollars. If you discover a frozen pipe in your home, it is essential to take immediate action.
Continue reading to learn what you should do when your pipes freeze.
What to Do When Your Pipes Freeze
If you find frozen pipes in your home, make sure to do the following:
- TURN OFF THE WATER — The first thing you should do is turn off the water main to your property and slightly open any faucets connected to the frozen pipe. This will immediately reduce pressure on the frozen pipes and minimize flooding if the pipes were to burst.
- THAW THE PIPE — If the frozen pipe is exposed and easily accessible, use a blowdryer or space heater to thaw the pipe and melt the ice blockage. DO NOT use an open flame and keep space heaters far from walls and flammable items to avoid the risk of fire.
- EXAMINE PIPES — Inspect exposed pipes for leaks and signs of bursts. Even with your water shut off, there should be enough water pressure to reveal any leaks after the pipe has had time to thaw.
- CONTACT THE PROS — A professional plumber has the equipment to thaw pipes and get them flowing again. They can also make repairs if necessary. Even if you do not find a leak, it is smart to have a professional examine the pipes. Pipes that experience significant stretching and fatigue should be replaced, even if they do not burst because they are at risk for future failure and damage.
How to Avoid Pipe Problems
If you haven’t experienced frosted pipes, consider yourself lucky and take these steps to ensure your home doesn’t suffer damage caused by burst pipes once the weather is freezing:
- Install pipe insulation on pipes at risk.
- Open cabinets below sinks to allow warm air circulation.
- Keep garage doors closed.
- Set your heat to at least 55° when you are not home.
- Leave doors open inside your home to keep all rooms at a consistent temperature.
- Open faucets to allow a slow drip.
- Remove all hoses from the exterior of your property.
- Keep your thermostat temp consistent.
Contact Restoremasters
If your home has suffered water damage due to frozen pipes, it is important to contact the experts Restoremasters right away.
When disaster strikes, our knowledgeable and experienced team is available 24/7 and committed to being on location in an hour or less. We will take charge of your unfortunate situation, starting with site security, and begin remediating your home. Our skilled technicians will restore your property, and you settled faster.
We serve Salt Lake City, Ogden, Tooele, and other neighboring Utah cities. If your home or business along the Wasatch Front has suffered damage due to water, smoke, or flood damage, contact Restoremasters today.
