Winter is not going anywhere anytime soon, so it is a good idea to get your plumbing systems under control now, before the peak of the season is upon us, and your options are more limited. Frozen pipes are one of the most common plumbing mishaps among homeowners, and one of the most common repairs done by plumbers in the spring. You do not want to deal with the aftermath of frozen or burst pipes, and you won’t have to as long as you get prepared.
Continue reading to learn how to prevent frozen plumbing pipes this year, and what to do if you suspect you might already have some plumbing issues that need professional attention.
The Problem With Frozen Plumbing Pipes
Although your plumbing pipes are likely insulated, as most are here in the United States, they can still be prone to freezing in extreme temperatures. This is bad news because water expands and contracts as it freezes and thaws. Ever notice those huge potholes in the spring after all the snow melts away? This is due to water seeping into pavement and expanding and contracting as it freezes and thaws. This causes pavement damages like cracks and holes, and the same can happen to your plumbing pipes.
If the frozen water within plumbing pipes creates too much pressure build up, it can actually cause the pipe to rupture, which leads to unexpected water leaks and flooding after the ice melts. It also causes water and energy bills to skyrocket. Not as costly or invasive, but equally frustrating, frozen pipes can also lead to faucet problems, slow water, poor water pressure, and similar water quality issues.
How to Protect Your Pipes From Freezing Over
Inspect your walls and ceilings for any cracks. Seal them up.
Inspect your basement and crawl space for any gaps or openings, and seal them up.
Apply weatherstripping and caulk around your basement windows, and also around your crawlspace door.
Have your home insulation inspected and repaired as needed.
Locate all unprotected pipes and insulated them with pipe sleeves. Be sure they are tightly secured together. Seal up any openings or joints with duct tape.
Consider thermostat-controlled, UL-listed heat cable technology for your plumbing pipes. This keeps them warm during the colder seasons.
Install storm windows over any basement windows.
Replace your windows with energy-efficient models.
Professional Plumbing Services in Indianapolis, Indiana
Call Restoration By L&B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lee Elliot, and his team of licensed general contractors, provide a wide range of plumbing and repiping work for residential and commercial properties, including water heater repair, installation, and replacement. Call 317-454-3612 to speak with one of our knowledgeable Indianapolis plumbers, today.
