Frozen Pipes

1/15/2018 (Permalink)

Living in Canada, we know that those temperatures can fluctuate in the winter months. We also know how cold it can get, which can lead to bursting pipes in our home. It is important to be aware of this and to know why it is happening. Also, to know ways in which to prevent it and what to do in case this does happen…

Why frozen water will burst your pipes

Unprotected pipes are susceptible to cold temperature because water expands when it goes from liquid to solid for

• A gallon of water, when frozen, will expand to a volume 9% greater than the original gallon
• Ice blockage becomes more likely when outside temperatures drop to below freezing
• A cold wind reaching unprotected pipes quickly removes heat and increases the chance of ice formation
• Water pressure that builds between the ice blockage and a closed faucet can burst the pipe

Tips to avoid bursting pipes

• Wrap outside faucets
• Caulk around pipes where they enter the house
• Disconnect garden hoses
• Drain in-ground sprinkler systems
• Let a stream of water run, if the temperature dips below freezing
• Open cupboard doors in the kitchen and bathrooms
• Shut off and drain your water system if you are leaving home for several days

In case of frozen pipes

• Keep the faucet dripping
• Apply heat to affected section of pipe with a heating pad or hair dryer
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored
• If you still have trouble, call a licensed plumber
• And if further damage is done, call us at SERVPRO of Barrie