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Plummeting temperatures increase the likelihood of frozen pipes. Because water expands when it freezes, there’s also a risk that frozen pipes will burst, requiring even more extensive repairs. Below, discover some ways to prevent frozen pipes, as well as a few tips plumbers suggest for thawing pipes that have frozen.

Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes

Ensure your home is well insulated, with additional insulation in attics, basements, crawlspaces, and anywhere else that houses your pipes. Before winter weather sets in, disconnect any garden hoses still attached to outdoor faucets. Drain them and store them indoors for the winter. Attached hoses have access to a ready flow of water, which can easily freeze up when temperatures drop.

plumbersFor this same reason, drain all water from sprinklers and lawn irrigation systems, as well as from swimming pools. Invest in heat tape and cover all exposed pipes with it, but be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Heat tape must be applied a certain way, and some varieties are more like cables, which may require temperature regulation with a thermostat.

Tips for Thawing Frozen Pipes

To thaw a pipe, first open the faucets connected to it so air can escape and water can freely flow once it gets heated up. Start thawing near the faucet and work your way down. Use a hairdryer or space heater to generate enough warmth to melt the blockage. You can also soak a towel in hot water and wrap it around the pipe. If the pipes are enclosed in a wall or floor, turn up the thermostat inside the home. If a pipe bursts, turn off your main water valve and contact a plumber right away.

 

 

A plumber will help you prevent and thaw frozen pipes. A. Stevens Plumbing & Heating Inc. has been serving property owners throughout the Orange County, NY, area since 1986. They also offer heating and cooling repairs and installations, as well as water softener and treatment services. They are fully licensed and certified, and they provide scheduled and emergency services for both residential and commercial clients. Call (845) 496-5903 or visit them online to schedule a visit from a plumber today.

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