Frozen Pipe Prevention Tips Fairfax VA

The extreme cold integrated with wind chill creates a considerable risk for burst or frozen pipelines. Freezing water relies on ice within the pipe, which in turn can broaden and obstruct the line. This blockage can produce excessive pressure throughout the system and cause pipeline failure in susceptible locations-- no matter if the pipe is made from plastic, copper or steel. Even a small crack can let loose more than 250 gallons of water in a single day. The results of frozen water pipes can trigger residential or commercial property damage, high repair work costs and disruption of business.

Follow these plumbing tips to assist minimize the risk of freezing pipes, and to assist avoid damage and pricey repair works.

Prevention Tips for Frozen Pipes

Open cabinet doors under sinks and in storage locations to permit heat from the room to distribute around uninsulated pipelines. Allow 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 since 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 cable televisions around pipelines that are exposed and prone to freezing.
Make sure the heat is turned on in the building and is set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Shut down the water pipe leading into the structure to minimize pressure on frozen pipelines and lessen flooding if the pipes burst.
Use a hair dryer to thaw the ice clog if the frozen pipeline is exposed and visible. (Do not use an open flame to thaw!) If frozen pipelines are not noticeable, hire the professionals at Midwest Plumbers.
If you currently observe slower water flow and anticipate frozen pipes, you should call a plumbing professional instantly. Usually, concerns like this can be fixed before any damage takes place.
If you experience frozen pipes, call our Midwest Plumbers plumbing specialists, who use professional pipe-thawing equipment. Call or book a consultation online. For a list of basement plumbing services -- consisting of water leak service and laundry room upkeep -- take a look at our site or offer us a ring.