Frozen and burst pipes can be incredibly frustrating in the cold of winter. When your pipes freeze, quick action is imperative to ensure your home does not suffer lasting damage. Knowing how to handle issues like this can save time and money. Likewise, knowing how to prevent your pipes from freezing is equally important.
Professional Plumbing Services in Winston-Salem, NC
Frozen pipes call for emergency plumbing services. The professional plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Winston Salem are here no matter what plumbing issue you suddenly face. We are also here to perform preventative maintenance on your home’s plumbing system to prevent these catastrophes from happening in the first place.
What Causes Pipes to Freeze?
Water pipes are particularly prone to freezing in the winter when cold temperatures are more frequent. Certain factors can increase the chances of frozen pipes, including:
- Pipes located in exterior walls
- Poor insulation
- Temperatures dropping below 20 degrees
- Pipes located in unheated interior spaces
- Pipes located in drafty areas
My Pipes Froze. What Should I Do?
If the temperatures outside have dropped below freezing and you are not getting water from one or more faucets in your home, the chances are high that you are dealing with a frozen pipe. Taking fast action is essential to thaw the pipe and keep it from bursting or flooding your home with significant water. If you're dealing with a pipe that has become frozen in your Winston-Salem property, it is vital to take the following steps:
- Shut off Your Water Supply: If you don’t know where it is, locate your home’s main water shut-off valve. You may be able to call your utility’s emergency service line for help in finding it.
- Locate the Frozen Pipe: The frozen pipe is most likely in the basement, attic, crawlspace, exterior wall, or under a sink. It is typical to see frost outside of the frozen pipe.
- Open All Faucets Connected to that Pipe: This will relieve pressure on the unfrozen portions of the pipe, helping to prevent any pipes from bursting.
- Check for Leaks: If the pipe is cracked due to the freeze or has already burst, call a professional plumber immediately.
- Attempt to Thaw the Pipe: If the pipe is located and can be accessed easily, use a hair dryer or a space heater to thaw the pipe. Do not try to thaw your frozen pipe with an open flame.
While these steps may be helpful, the most effective step is to call a knowledgeable plumber. They can provide advice and effective plumbing services to fix and prevent the issue from becoming a larger problem.
How to Prevent Pipes From Freezing in the Future
Unfortunately, you cannot control winter weather. However, you can do everything possible to prevent your pipes from freezing, including these steps:
- Seal any cracks in your exterior walls
- Insulate the actual pipes
- Keep your home heated
- Open faucets
- Open the cabinets under your sinks
- Insulate to unheated indoor spaces
Mr. Rooter Specializes in Frozen Pipe Repair and Service
In some cases, you may be able to thaw a frozen pipe yourself successfully. However, in most of these situations, a professional plumber is needed. When your pipes freeze, Mr. Rooter Plumbing is here to offer assistance. Even if your pipes survive the freeze, a plumber can check for any damage and make the necessary repairs. Contact us today to see how we might be of service.
