During winter, some of the most pernicious issues are frozen pipes. Because water expands as it freezes, without the right care and precautionary measures, they can eventually crack and burst. In addition to becoming a major inconvenience, this could be an expensive repair. If you live in an area that’s prone to freezing temperatures, there are a few quick and easy ways to avoid this

A Primer on Frozen Pipes

Prevention

Exterior pipes like sprinkler supply lines and those in uninsulated areas such as unfinished basements, garages, and attics, are more likely to freeze than those behind the walls and the ceiling. To protect them, do the following.

• Drain the Exterior Lines: Before the temperature gets too cold, open up and empty the sprinkler supply lines, hose bibs, and any other pipes outside.

• Insulate: Easily available at most home improvement stores, you can buy insulation foam for your pipes. Molded to create a snug wrap around the pipe, it's easy to apply and they create a protective buffer against the cold.

Thawing

You can thaw frozen pipes. Determine if your pipes are frozen by turning on the faucet. If only a few drops fall out, it’s likely frozen. To thaw your pipes, do the following.

• Turn On the Faucet: As the water melts, it needs somewhere to go. This will ensure it flows once the pipe is thawed. Additionally, the movement of running water will melt the frozen water within.

• Gently Introduce Heat: Starting at the area closest to the faucet you just turned on, bring in a heat source and apply it to the pipe. You can use a hair dryer, space heater, heat lamp, or towels soaked in hot water. Never use an open flame; it could damage the pipe. Wait until water flows before moving on. The key is to do this gradually.

• Heat the Home: If any pipes behind the ceiling or the walls have frozen, the best thing you can do is simply use your heater. Open up all the interior doors so that the warm air has a chance to circulate throughout the house.

For anyone in the Lakeville, MN, area who needs help with either preventing or thawing frozen pipes, contact Drain Pro Plumbing. Family-owned and -operated, they’ve served the region’s residents and businesses for 30 years. They’re known for their expert work, fast turnarounds, and affordable rates. If you need more extensive work done, such as a kitchen or bathroom remodel, you can trust them with that as well. For a full list of what these plumbers can do, visit their website and if you’d like a free estimate, call them today at (952) 469-6999.