Frozen Pipe Prevention Tips University Of Virginia VA

The severe cold combined with wind chill creates a significant risk for burst or frozen pipelines. Freezing water relies on ice within the pipe, which in turn can expand and block the line. This obstruction 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 small crack can release more than 250 gallons of water in a single day. The results of frozen pipes can cause home damage, high repair work expenses and disturbance of service.

Follow these plumbing suggestions to assist reduce the risk of freezing pipelines, and to help avoid damage and expensive repairs.

Prevention Tips for Frozen Pipes

Open cabinet doors under sinks and in storage areas to permit heat from the room to distribute around uninsulated pipelines. Permit a trickle of hot and cold water to leak over night; nevertheless, 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 pipes in unheated areas or versus uninsulated outdoors walls, in garages or in crawl areas. Apply heat tape or thermostat-controlled heat cables around pipes that are exposed and vulnerable to freezing.
Make certain the heat is switched on in the structure and is set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Shut down the water pipe leading into the structure to reduce pressure on frozen pipelines and decrease flooding if the pipes burst.
Utilize a hair clothes dryer to thaw the ice obstruction if the frozen pipe is exposed and noticeable. (Do not use an open flame to thaw!) If frozen pipes are not visible, call in the specialists at Midwest Plumbers.
If you presently see slower water circulation and expect frozen pipelines, you must call a plumbing technician right away. Generally, concerns like this can be fixed before any damage takes place.
If you experience frozen pipes, contact our Midwest Plumbers plumbing professionals, who utilize expert pipe-thawing equipment. Call or book a visit online. For a list of basement plumbing services -- consisting of water leak service and laundry room upkeep -- have a look at our site or give us a ring.