Frozen pipes are a homeowner’s worst nightmare. While extremely common in the Greater Philadelphia area, dealing with this issue can be stressful, especially in the dead of winter. Not only do they prevent water from flowing freely, but they also pose a high risk of bursting if not taken care of quickly. The best way to deal with frozen pipes is to prevent them in the first place. Below, the professionals at Restoration 1 of Chester County share what to do if your pipes freeze so you can minimize damage and costly repairs.
What Causes Frozen Pipes?
During the cold winter months, your pipes are particularly susceptible to freezing. When the temperature outside drops, water may freeze inside your pipes, which causes them to expand and pressurize. If not addressed immediately, they can burst, resulting in flooding and rendering your plumbing system unusable. Below are several factors that make your pipes more susceptible to freezing: Freezing Temperatures – As mentioned above, cold temperatures (below 20 degrees Fahrenheit) can cause your pipes to freeze. The water in your pipes is more protected than standing water outside, that’s why the temperatures must dip far below freezing for them to freeze. Unheated Interior Spaces – The pipes in cabinets underneath your sinks, located in the attic, crawl space, and basement, are more vulnerable to freezing because they don’t have the advantage of your home’s heating system to keep them warm. Burst pipes most often occur in these areas of your home. Located in Exterior Walls – Pipes located in exterior walls are right up against the cold. If your walls are improperly insulated or there are cracks, the pipes in these walls can freeze and burst. Insufficient Insulation – Insulation helps your home retain heat in the winter and protects against cold temperatures. If there isn’t enough insulation in your attic, crawl space, or basement, your pipes can freeze.How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
While we have no control over the outside temperature, you can take steps to winterize your home to reduce the risk of frozen pipes. Follow these tips to avoid freezing pipes:- Seal up cracks in exterior walls
- Add insulation to unheated spaces and your pipes
- Open cabinets under sinks to allow heat and airflow
- Heat your home to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit
- Open exterior faucets to allow water to trickle from them
What to Do When Your Pipes Freeze
If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of a frozen pipe, here are several steps to remedy the issue and avoid or minimize severe damage to your home.- Shut off your water – Find your main water supply valve and shut off the water. This helps to relieve pressure and minimize flooding if the pipe bursts.
- Locate the frozen pipe – Your frozen pipe is most likely in an exterior wall, basement, attic, crawl space, garage, or underneath a sink, so check these areas first. The pipe will most likely look frosty.
- Open the faucets connected to the pipe – Opening faucets connected to the frozen pipe will help relieve pressure on the non-frozen portions.
- Check for leaks – Even with the water turned off, enough pressure is built up to reveal leaks. If you see water, call a professional.
- Try to thaw – If the pipe is somewhere that is easily accessible, you can try to thaw it with a hair dryer or space heater. Never use an open flame.
- Call a professional – Even if you don’t find any leaks, a plumber should examine the frozen pipes. Some pipes might need to be replaced since the pressure causes extensive stretching and fatigue on the pipe.
Frozen and Burst Pipe Restoration from Restoration 1 of Chester County
When a burst pipe occurs, contact the cleanup crew at Restoration 1! Water from a burst pipe can cause extensive damage to floors, walls, insulation, and drywall, and you risk the chance of mold growth. Our team can quickly resolve the problem, clean up the mess, and restore your space so you can get your life back on track. We’re ready to help with your frozen or burst pipe, so contact us at (610) 890-4258, and we can schedule your service immediately.
Born and raised in New Jersey, Lori has always had a passion for construction and property management. Lori is IICRC-certified in Water and Fire Remediation and Restoration, and has a cumulative experience of 15 years of which she spent 12 years serving the Chester,
Delaware, and Montgomery counties with exceptional attention to detail and uncompromising dedication to each of her clients. She is a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the field, and can be relied upon for a thoroughly professional experience.