Homeowners often fail to prepare for the possibility of their pipes freezing during the winter months. Household pipelines run throughout your home, and they can cause significant damage that needs to be addressed by a certified plumber if they freeze or burst. Even homeowners living in warmer areas can experience issues after an unusual drop in temperature, so take note of a few guidelines to follow when dealing with plumbing and winter weather.  

Dealing With Plumbing When the Temperature Drops

How do my pipes freeze inside my house?

Your system may encounter problems once the temperature drops below 20 degrees. Piping in interior spaces, like basements and attics, are the most susceptible to freezing, but channels in different areas of your home can experience issues as well. Unlike drain piping that carries away wastewater, smaller water pipes are pressurized and hold liquid, making them a significant concern if frozen over. If they freeze and burst, they will release enough water to damage your home and property significantly.

What can I do to keep them from freezing?

There are a few precautions you can take to keep issues at bay in freezing weather. Letting water drip from your faucet will relieve pressure in your pipeline. Too much stress can cause them to burst, so keep this under control to avoid a flooded home.

Adding extra insulation to pipes located in non-insulated areas, like the basement or garage, can help keep them from freezing. Keeping the heat at a warmer temperature throughout the day and night will also make a difference. If you plan to leave town for a few days, make sure the thermostat is set to stay at least a 50-degree temperature while you’re away to avoid iced-over pipelines.

How do I unfreeze my pipes?

Frozen pipes can be tricky since thawing them out can cause a sudden rush of water through the pipeline if your system has already burst. To prevent potential flooding, contact a plumber to make sure there isn’t a rupture in the system. Once you’ve ruled out any breaches, try thawing your system by wrapping a heating pad around the pipe, or heat it with a hairdryer. Space heaters can also provide an extra burst of heat that will warm up an iced-over channel. However, if you are unsure about the extent of the issue, be sure to contact a professional.

If you’re worried about frozen pipes, call the professionals at Powell Plumbing & Pumps Inc in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Serving the area for over 30 years, these expert plumbers are trained and equipped to handle a variety of projects, including sewage pump repairs, septic systems, and well installation. Visit their website for a list of their preferred brands or call them today at (715) 325-2050.