Frozen Pipe Prevention Tips Northwest Ithaca NY

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

Follow these plumbing pointers to assist lessen the threat of freezing pipelines, and to assist prevent damage and expensive repair works.

Prevention Tips for Frozen Pipes

Open cabinet doors under sinks and in storage locations to allow heat from the room to distribute around uninsulated pipes. Allow a drip of hot and cold water to drip overnight; however, take care not to run the water into a drain line that is exposed to the extreme cold because that line might freeze.
Insulate all pipelines in unheated locations or against uninsulated outside walls, in garages or in crawl areas. Apply heat tape or thermostat-controlled heat cables around pipes that are exposed and prone to freezing.
Ensure the heat is switched on in the building and is set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Avoid Frozen Pipes

Shut off the water main leading into the structure to minimize pressure on frozen pipes and minimize flooding if the pipes burst.
Utilize a hair dryer to thaw the ice blockage if the frozen pipe is exposed and noticeable. (Do not use an open flame to thaw!) If frozen pipelines are not visible, contact the specialists at Midwest Plumbers.
If you currently observe slower water flow and anticipate frozen pipes, you need to call a plumbing instantly. Typically, issues like this can be fixed prior to any damage occurs.
If you experience frozen water pipes, contact our Midwest Plumbers plumbing specialists, who use professional pipe-thawing devices. Call or book an appointment online. For a list of basement plumbing services -- consisting of water leakage service and utility room upkeep -- take a look at our website or provide us a ring.