6-TIPS ON WHAT TO DO IF YOUR PIPES FREEZE

6-TIPS ON WHAT TO DO IF YOUR PIPES FREEZE

During this recent below-freezing temperature snap and snow and ice the DFW area is experiencing-many water supply pipes are freezing and bursting. Plumbers often tell you preventative measures to keep your pipes from freezing but they don’t always tell you what to do if your pipes have already frozen. Here are some steps you can take to remedy frozen pipes safely. If you follow these tips you may be able to avoid or minimize serious damage:

• Shut-off the water main leading into your house or building and open any faucets connected to the pipe. This will reduce pressure on the frozen pipes and minimize flooding if the pipes burst.
• If the frozen pipe is exposed and visible, use a hairdryer, heat gun, or space heater to thaw the ice blockage. Do not use an open flame and keep space heaters far enough away from walls and flammable materials to avoid fire risk!
• Wrapping freezing pipes with thermostatically controlled heat tape is also an effective way to quickly thaw a trouble spot.
• Examine exposed pipes for leaks. Even with the water main turned off, there will be enough pressure to reveal leaks once the pipe has thawed. The real trouble begins after the thaw. That’s because the frozen water may be acting as a plug, preventing water from spilling out of the cracks in your pipes. When that plug is thawed, water gushes out. It’s a good idea to be ready with a mop, bucket, and towels in case there’s a plumbing leak.
• Contact Auger Pros Plumbing who is equipped with pipe-thawing equipment to get your pipes flowing again and if necessary, make repairs to damaged pipes.
• Even if no leaks are found, a plumber should examine the pipes that experienced a hard freeze. Some pipes may need to be replaced since the material has experienced stretching and fatigue, putting the pipes at risk for future bursting.

Keep in mind when the pipes thaw, they may begin spewing water inside your walls if the pipe has burst. It’s because water expands when it freezes, adding considerable pressure on unyielding plumbing pipes. That pressure can cause a tiny leak at a joint or crack on a length of pipe, unleashing the full flow of water inside your home. The resulting flooding can quickly cause serious property damage. Auger Pros Plumbing can also suggest Water Restoration companies if you have interior damage as well as plumbing services so we can offer one stop service to home and business owners who are dealing with all problems associated with frozen pipes. 

What to Do If a Pipe Has Already Burst:

If you happen to see a dreaded geyser, the first thing you should do is shut off the main water supply to minimize flooding. Next, call your plumber.

Immediately dry out by removing as much water as possible using mops, sponges, towels, and a wet/dry vacuum. To minimize mold, mildew, and other moisture-related problems, run a dehumidifier in the space until it’s very dry.

The bottom line is, if a severe cold front is approaching, it’s always good to Have a Plumber on Speed-Dial. Call Auger Pros today at 214-206-6580 so that we can help you with all your antarctic plumbing woes!!