Are you worried about your pipes freezing in this Polar Vortex?
Here are a few simple tips to follow to try to prevent that from happening.
Field tests conducted at the University of Illinois shows the onset of freezing occurred in residential water systems subjected to winter temperatures for un-insulated pipes when the outside temperature fell to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Letting the Water Run: Opening a faucet will provide relief from the excessive pressure that builds between the faucet and the ice blockage when freezing occurs. If there is no excessive water pressure, there is no burst pipe, even if the water inside the pipe freezes.
- Insulate all water pipes. Pipe insulation can be purchased at any hardware store, and it can be easily cut with scissors.
- Install heater tape. Weather tape is wrapped around the pipes and is controlled by a built-in thermostat.
- Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
- Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
- Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.
- Seal air leaks surrounding or near pipes.
If You Suspect a Frozen Pipe – If you open a faucet and no water comes out, don’t take any chances. Call a plumber. If a water pipe bursts, turn off the water at the main shut-off valve (usually at the water meter or where the main line enters the house); leave the faucet(s) open until repairs are completed. Don’t try to thaw a frozen pipe with an open flame; as this will damage the pipe and may even start a building fire. You might be able to thaw a pipe with a hand-held hair dryer. Slowly apply heat, starting close to the faucet end of the pipe, with the faucet open. Work toward the coldest section. Don’t use electrical appliances while standing in water; you could get electrocuted.
This post was adapted from the newsletter published by the McMichael Insurance Co. in Streetsboro.
9293 St. Route 43, Ste C
Streetsboro, OH 44241
Local: (330) 626-4972
