Frozen Pipe Prevention Tips West Mifflin PA

The severe cold combined with wind chill develops a substantial risk for burst or frozen pipelines. Freezing water relies on ice within the pipe, which in turn can expand and block the line. This clog can develop excessive pressure throughout the system and trigger pipeline failure in susceptible locations-- no matter if the pipeline is made of plastic, copper or steel. Even a tiny crack can release more than 250 gallons of water in a single day. The results of frozen water pipes can trigger home damage, high repair expenses and interruption of service.

Follow these plumbing tips to assist reduce the risk of freezing pipelines, and to help prevent damage and expensive repair works.

Prevention Tips for Frozen Pipes

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

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Shut off the water pipe leading into the structure to lower pressure on frozen pipes and decrease flooding if the pipes burst.
Utilize a hair clothes dryer to thaw the ice blockage if the frozen pipe is exposed and visible. (Do not utilize an open flame to thaw!) If frozen pipelines are not visible, call in the professionals at Midwest Plumbers.
If you currently notice slower water flow and expect frozen pipes, you should call a plumbing professional instantly. Usually, issues like this can be resolved prior to any damage happens.
If you experience frozen pipes, contact our Midwest Plumbers plumbing specialists, who utilize expert pipe-thawing equipment. Call or schedule a visit online. For a list of basement plumbing services -- including water leakage service and utility room maintenance -- check out our website or give us a ring.