Typically, water pipes are exposed to extreme cold weather conditions during the winter months. As a result, the water freezes and expands. When the ice melts, the pressure builds up within the pipe, causing it to rupture.
To prevent freezing pipes from bursting, you should take some precautions. some of these precautions include:
1. Let Faucets Drip
You should let faucets drip if you’re not going to use them for a while. This will prevent water from pooling inside the pipes and freezing, thus protecting them. Additionally, letting your faucets drip will help release pressure in your pipes, thus preventing rupture during winter.
2. Keep the Heat On
Heat is another factor that causes ice buildup. If you have a heating system, make sure to keep the thermostat at a comfortable level so that the heat won’t be turned off accidentally by an unsupervised child or pet.
3. Disconnect Your Garden Hoses
If you have outdoor plumbing, make sure to disconnect your garden hoses before winter. During this time, ice crystals form under the hose due to cold temperatures in FL.
The buildup of ice can lead to cracks and ruptures in your pipes. To prevent this from happening, ensure that all of your hoses are removed from their respective connections. Additionally, be sure to contact a reputable plumber in FL to help you prevent your pipes from freezing.
4. Open Cabinets and Doors
Make sure to leave cabinet knobs open when preparing food. This will allow warm air to circulate your food storage and prevent it from getting too hot. Additionally, keep the door and window openings fully clear since the cold air may enter through tiny holes.
5. Cover Pipes with Insulation
This precaution includes covering pipes that run outdoors with insulation blankets, ensuring that they are not affected by freezing temperatures. Insulation blankets come in different sizes to cover smaller areas like sinks or tubs and larger ones for entire rooms like bathrooms. In addition to reducing the risk of freezing pipes, using insulated blankets also protects pipes from other damages such as water leaks and rodents chewing on the metal.
What to Do When Your Pipes Freeze
When your pipes freeze overnight, most of us tend to panic because we think the problem has just started. However, there’s always a chance that even after the water lines thaw out, your pipes might still suffer damage.
Unfortunately, frozen lines can’t be repaired without professional assistance. But luckily, there are many things you can do to repair pipes when they freeze up. One common mistake homeowners make trying to fix problems with the pipes themselves.
The first step in repairing any plumbing failure is to call a certified plumbing technician or expert. It could be that the issue was caused by something like a clog that needs to be cleared.
Good plumbing service will have skilled personnel knowledgeable about dealing with each kind of issue. They’ll know exactly what to look for and what materials you need. For more details about plumbing services in Coconut Creek, be sure to call us today.
