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How to Prevent and Deal with Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes can be a major inconvenience and even a costly disaster. They can burst, causing water damage to your home or business. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent frozen pipes and to thaw them if they do freeze.
Preventing Frozen Pipes
We share with you some tips here about how to prevent your pipes from freezing in the winter months, but also what to do if they do freeze.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
This is especially important in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
2. Seal Up Drafts
Caulk and weatherstrip around windows and doors to prevent cold air from entering your home.
3. Let Faucets Drip
A slow drip can help prevent pipes from freezing.
4. Open Cabinet Doors
During cold weather, open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
What to do if your pipes freeze
1. Locate the Frozen Area
This may involve feeling the pipes or listening for gurgling sounds.
2. Turn off the Water Supply
This will help prevent flooding if the pipe bursts.
3. Open the Faucet
This will relieve pressure in the pipe.
4. Apply Heat
You can use a heat gun, space heater, or hair dryer to warm the frozen area. Wrap the pipe in a heating pad or towel to help retain the heat.
5. Call a Plumber
If you are unable to thaw the pipe yourself, or if the pipe has burst, it is important to call a professional plumber. To contact our Emergency Plumbers, please call us on 07719 557 508.