Are Your Pipes in Danger of Freezing?
A lot of things tend to freeze up or ice over in the winter months, such as your roof, your car, and your driveway. But your pipes are also vulnerable to the chill, and because they’re mostly concealed underground and within your walls, it can be hard to tell if they’ve frozen solid. If you live in an area that’s prone to snow and ice, frozen pipes are something you need to stay vigilant for.
Spot the Signs of a Potential Freeze
- Low water pressure, or a complete lack of water
- Visible frost on exposed pipes
- A strong odor around your property, indicating a frozen sewer line
- Clanging or banging sounds from your pipes
- A lack of hot water
Tricks to Help You Avoid Frozen Pipes
- Make sure your swimming pool and sprinkler lines are properly drained before winter hits
- Make sure your home is properly insulated
- Invest in winterization or pipe insulation services
- Add extra protection to exposed pipes, like the ones under your sink
Frozen Pipes can Lead to Further Damages
Once your pipes are frozen, you could find yourself dealing with much more urgent problems. Frozen pipes can cut off your supply of running water, leaving you unable to complete essential tasks. Additionally, ice makes pipes brittle and prone to cracking and leaking – frozen pipes can even burst, leading to serious flooding. These damages may require you to replace a significant portion of your plumbing system, costing you a lot of time and money.
What to Do About Frozen Pipes
The most important thing to remember when dealing with frozen pipes is not to attempt to thaw them on your own. Frozen pipes cannot be thawed too quickly as it could damage them even further. The process is precise and requires the expertise of a trained professional. Contact your local plumber immediately when you think your pipes may be frozen. The sooner you get a licensed professional on the job, the better your chances are that further damage can be avoided.
The licensed plumbers of Donmar Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing are here for all your frozen pipe needs. Give us a call at (703) 457-8676 to get your questions answered or schedule an appointment!