These artic chill temperatures can really take a toll on all of us. They can also cause a great deal of damage to your home, so please keep an eye on the forecast and take these precautionary steps when the temperature reaches 32 degrees or less outside.
How do you prevent your Pipes from Freezing?
Areas of Concerns: Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation, basements, garages, hose bids, swimming pools and or spas (hopefully, these items were winterized long ago).
1. Open cabinet doors under sinks located on outside walls.
2. Let the cold-water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. It doesn’t take much water but keeping the water dripping at even a trickle
3. Keep the thermostat in your home set to the same temperature both during the day and at night.
4. Put foam covers over outdoor spigots.
5. Insulate water pipes with foam pipe insulation. Also, referred to as a “pipe sleeve”. You can also install UL list “heat tape: or “heat cable” See your local hardware store for assistance regarding these items.
6. For garages with water lines in them ensure that you keep the garage door closed as often as possible.
How to Thaw Frozen Pipes?
Area of Concern: If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out or possibly no water then most likely you should suspect a frozen pipe.
1) Keep the faucet on as you “treat” the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
2) Apply heat to the section of pipe using a hair dryer, an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, a portable space heater (just ensure you monitor the heater). You can also wrap pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Remember safety is key so don’t panic and use any dangerous items such as a propane heater, a blowtorch or other open flame device.
3) Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber. We are always happy to share referrals with you or look at reviews online.
4) Don’t forget to check all other faucets in your home. It’s common to have multiple issues in your home.
What to do if a Pipe does burst?
Remedy the situation as quickly as possible. Water causes severe damage.
1) Turn off the water supply to that valve or just turn it off to the entire home
2) Soak up all water that you can
3) Call a licensed Plumber
4) Call for a water extraction if needed from a reputable Carpet Cleaning Company. They will provide fans as well. Remember mold and mildew grows in just 3 days so it’s important to remove the water and moisture as quickly as possible. We are happy to refer companies to you as well.
5) Call your Agent…we are last on the list because you need to get the water cleaned up. An Adjuster will be assigned with your Claim but this process doesn’t take minutes and so you will be asked to keep receipts, take pictures and stop any additional damages from happening.
Remember we are here for you and will walk you through the process. It’s a horrible loss to have so please take these precautionary steps. Although, time consuming it’s most definitely worth the effort.
Stay Warm!