Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter Nashville

12/2/2016 (Permalink)

Let the water drip to prevent frozen pipes!

As we continue to list safety ideas for you to consider this winter, we have one today that carries a little more potential for costly damage due to the nature of when and where the disaster can occur. Frozen water pipes in your home can be a costly and damaging incident that can be prevented with some vigilance and preventative measures. Yes, even Nashville winters carry the potential to wreak havoc in homes with frozen or burst pipes. So, let’s make sure you are as safe as possible this season by informing you of some well-known tips and popular tricks to keep your water flowing and your pipes safe and sound.

First, let’s talk about the what, how and and why of frozen pipes. As many of you know, when water freezes it expands. In cases of extreme cold, ice can expand to the point of breaking through or bursting your pipes that have water sitting in them.

Crawl spaces, attics, garages and similar places that are more exposed to the outside temperature without insulation are the most likely areas where pipe breakage will occur. So for these areas, it is important to drain the supply lines or remove the hoses that are commonly left in the cold. Swimming pools and water hoses are easy areas to begin the process. Speak to plumber about having insulation, or perhaps a pipe-sleeve, added to trouble areas. Keep the garage door closed if water supply lines are inside.

An area that sees potential for loss every year is families travelling for the holidays and pipes bursting when no one will know for an extended amount of time. No one wants to come home from the airport or after a long drive and see water all over the floor or running water trickling to a standstill. But don’t fear, there are ways to prevent these events as well. It is highly recommended to keep your thermostat no lower than 55?  while away from home. Some sources say even while home, keep the same temperature at night as you do during the day. We will leave that to your discretion as it could result in a higher than normal heating bill but possibly prevent a high repair charge.

If you suspect a pipe is frozen but not broken, it is possible to thaw the pipe and resume regular use. An indicator that a pipe is frozen is water trickling from a faucet when it would normally flow fast and free. If you locate a section you believe to be frozen, apply a heating pad or hair dryer while keeping the faucet open. If the water begins to run after some time warming, you found the area!  If you can’t never try something you are not comfortable with. Phone a plumber and have an expert do the work. You can also ask for quotes on proper insulation for your pipes so they don’t freeze again in the future.

Enjoy your holidays Nashville and keep your pipes safe to prevent water damage to your home! If a disaster does occur, SERVPRO of Belle Meade is ready to help.