Frozen Pipe Prevention Tips Largo MD

The severe cold integrated with wind chill develops a considerable risk for burst or frozen pipes. Freezing water relies on ice within the pipe, which in turn can expand and block the line. This obstruction can create excessive pressure throughout the system and trigger pipe failure in vulnerable places-- no matter if the pipeline is made of plastic, copper or steel. Even a tiny crack can unleash more than 250 gallons of water in a single day. The results of frozen pipes can trigger home damage, high repair costs and interruption of business.

Follow these plumbing tips to help minimize the risk of freezing pipes, and to help avoid damage and costly repairs.

Prevention Tips for Frozen Pipes

Open cabinet doors under sinks and in storage locations to allow heat from the space to circulate around uninsulated pipelines. 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 pipes in unheated locations or versus uninsulated outdoors walls, in garages or in crawl spaces. Apply heat tape or thermostat-controlled heat cables around pipes that are exposed and vulnerable to freezing.
Make sure the heat is switched on in the structure and is set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Avoid Frozen Pipes

Shut off the water pipe leading into the structure to reduce pressure on frozen pipes and reduce flooding if the pipelines burst.
Use a hair clothes dryer to thaw the ice clog if the frozen pipe is exposed and noticeable. (Do not utilize an open flame to thaw!) If frozen pipelines are not noticeable, hire the professionals at Midwest Plumbers.
If you currently notice slower water flow and expect frozen pipelines, you must call a plumbing professional immediately. Generally, concerns like this can be resolved before any damage occurs.
If you experience frozen water pipes, contact our Midwest Plumbers plumbing experts, who utilize professional pipe-thawing equipment. Call or book a visit online. For a list of basement plumbing services -- including water leakage service and laundry room maintenance -- take a look at our website or provide us a ring.