Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes

12/30/2016 (Permalink)

As the temperature drops in the chilly months of winter, one of the last things you wish for during this holiday season is a frozen pipe. When water within pipes are exposed to cold temperatures the molecules begin to freeze. Once water converts into its solid form, the ice expands and an increase of pressure within the pipes intensifies. This expansion forces water toward your closed faucet.

Contrary to belief, the problem lies where the water is being pushed; not where it has frozen. Eventually under stress of immense pressure the pipe will rupture.

Here are some steps you can take for prevention and problem solving:

• Vulnerable pipes can be insulated with fiberglass or foam sleeves. Most hardware stores provide a variety of sizes and thickness to fulfill your needs.

• Make a habit of opening cupboard doors occasionally to increase circulation of heat.

• Allow faucets to drip when the temperature drops below-freezing.

• Seal any cracks that may be present around windows or door frames to eliminate the chance of drafts freezing exposed pipes.

If you know your pipe has already frozen, here are some helpful tips:

• Use a household hair dryer to thaw a frozen pipe.

• Heat water over a kitchen stove. Grab one or two towels, and submerge them in the hot water and proceed to wrap the hot towels around the frozen sections of the pipe.

If you find yourself with a bursted pipe, there is a two-step solution:

• Shut off all water at the main valves

• Call SERVPRO of Stamford!! SERVPRO provides a 24/7 emergency service and specializes in quick response to water damages.

(203) 324-1642

20 Garland Dr, Stamford CT 06907

“Like it Never Even Happened.”