Frozen Pipe Prevention Tips Lemont IL

The severe cold combined with wind chill produces a significant threat for burst or frozen pipelines. Freezing water turns to ice within the pipeline, which in turn can broaden and obstruct the line. This clog can develop extreme pressure throughout the system and cause pipe failure in susceptible locations-- no matter if the pipeline is made of plastic, copper or steel. Even a small crack can release more than 250 gallons of water in a single day. The results of frozen water pipes can trigger property damage, high repair costs and disruption of service.

Follow these plumbing suggestions to help reduce the threat of freezing pipes, and to help prevent damage and expensive repairs.

Prevention Tips for Frozen Pipes

Open cabinet doors under sinks and in storage areas to enable heat from the space to flow around uninsulated pipes. Permit a trickle of hot and cold water to leak overnight; however, beware not to run the water into a drain line that is exposed to the extreme cold because that line may freeze.
Insulate all pipelines in unheated areas or versus uninsulated outside walls, in garages or in crawl spaces. Apply heat tape or thermostat-controlled heat cables around pipes that are exposed and prone to freezing.
Make sure the heat is turned on in the structure and is set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Avoid Frozen Pipes

Shut off the water main leading into the structure to reduce pressure on frozen pipelines and reduce flooding if the pipelines burst.
Use a hair clothes dryer to thaw the ice clog if the frozen pipeline is exposed and visible. (Do not use an open flame to thaw!) If frozen pipes are not noticeable, hire the experts at Midwest Plumbers.
If you currently notice slower water circulation and expect frozen pipelines, you should call a plumbing immediately. Generally, concerns like this can be fixed prior to any damage takes place.
If you experience frozen water pipes, call our Midwest Plumbers plumbing specialists, who use professional pipe-thawing equipment. Call or schedule a visit online. For a list of basement plumbing services -- consisting of water leak service and laundry room upkeep -- have a look at our website or give us a ring.