Connecticut can experience harsh winters, and every time you experience your faucets not releasing enough water, chances are that the water in your pipelines has frozen. Water expands when it freezes, and it can result in some major plumbing issues. With non-insulated pipes, there is the risk of water freezing and creating pressure blocks – this can eventually lead to leaks, cracks, and even the pipeline bursting.
In this article, we will be going over the sort of plumbing that is most susceptible to freezing, how to figure out your pipes are frozen, and measures needed to thaw and repair the pipes.
Key Points
Water pipelines that are directly exposed to extreme weather conditions, like the winters in Connecticut, become prone to freezing and causing damage. Before the winter season arrives, make sure your pipes are covered and protected. Water sprinkler lines, outdoor hoses, plumbing in the basement and garage, and uninsulated outdoor pipes are most vulnerable to freezing when the weather gets cold.
It’s important that you notice the water activity in your plumbing before the issue gets from bad to worse and ends up costing you thousands of dollars in repair.
Identifying Freezing Pipes
The best way to find out that water might be freezing in your pipeline is if you notice a coat of frost settling on the pips. However, not all plumbing pipes are visible, as some are running through the walls as well. If you notice that not enough water is coming out from the faucets or the toilet bowl won’t refill after flushing – this is a good sign to tell some water might be frozen.
Other signs of frozen pipelines are:
Damp drywall
Sounds and unusual odor coming from pipes
Persistent plumbing issues
How to Thaw Frozen Pipes?
Apply heat to the pipes using a hairdryer, a heater, or by applying warm towels or a heating pad
Keep your faucet open while the pipes are heating. Wait for the ice to melt to trickle out.
Keep heating the pipes till the pressure of the water is restored.
What to Do If a Pipe Bursts?
If a pipe bursts, there’s bound to be flooding. Shut the main valve of the water supply immediately and contact A-Team Plumbing.
By the time our plumbers get to you, try to dry out the area as much as you can with mops, sponges, or even a wet vacuum.
How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing
Insulate the outdoor pipes before winter arrives
Let small amounts of water drip from the faucet to keep the water flowing
Open the cabinet doors under the sink at night for warm air to heat the pipes
Insulate water storage units
Store the outdoor hoses away
Seal the door openings to the attic and basement