How To Thaw & Repair Frozen Pipes
When water freezes, it expands and can cause damage to your pipes. It’s essential to take measures to prevent your pipes from freezing during cold weather and to know how to thaw them out if they do freeze.
Here in Ohio, we’re no strangers to cold winters. And while most of us are prepared for the snow and ice, we may not always think about our plumbing. But frozen pipes can be a big problem — causing everything from minor inconveniences to costly repairs.
So, what can you do to prevent your pipes from freezing? And what should you do if they do freeze? Read on to learn some tips from Superior Drainage.
How To Tell if Your Pipes Are Frozen
It can be hard to tell if your pipes are frozen, especially if they’re not easily accessible. However, there are a few key signs that you can look for:
- Water changes: If the water from your taps isn’t running as usual, or if it’s coming out in strange ways (for example, only a trickle instead of a steady stream), this could be a sign that your pipes are frozen.
- Strange noises: If your pipes make unusual noises when you turn on the tap, such as cracking or popping sounds, this is another potential sign that they’re frozen.
- Ice or frost: If you can see frost or ice on any of your exposed pipes, it strongly indicates that they’re frozen.
If you suspect that your pipes may be frozen, it’s important to act immediately to thaw them out and prevent further damage.
How To Thaw Frozen Pipes
If your pipes have frozen, there are a few things you can do to try and thaw them out:
- If you have frozen pipes, you first need to turn off the water at the main shut-off valve. This will help prevent further damage and allow you to thaw the pipes safely.
- Once the water is turned off, start thawing the pipes from the faucet end. You can use a hair dryer, heat lamp, or another similar device to slowly heat the line and help loosen any ice that may be blocking it.
- Work your way down the length of the pipe until you reach the point where it’s completely thawed. At this point, you can turn the water back on at the main shut-off valve and check for leaks.
Frozen Pipe Thawing & Repair
If your home or business in Ohio has been affected by frozen pipes, Superior Drainage can help. We offer a range of services to thaw and repair frozen pipes and any resulting damage.
Frozen pipes can often be fixed at home with a simple thawing process. However, if there’s any damage to the lines, it’s best to leave the repairs to a professional. Superior Drainage has the experience and expertise to fix frozen pipes quickly and efficiently.
In addition to repairs, we also offer thawing services for frozen pipes. It’s an excellent option for customers who do not feel comfortable attempting to thaw their pipes. Our professionals will safely and quickly thaw your frozen pipes so you can return to business as usual.
How To Prevent Pipes From Freezing
If you’re worried about your pipes freezing, there are a few things you can do to help prevent it:
- Make sure to keep your garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage. Doing so will help keep the cold air out.
- Open your kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate.
- Let cold water drip from the faucet to help relieve pressure on the pipes and prevent them from freezing.
- Set your thermostat to the same temperature all day long. This will help maintain a consistent temperature and prevent drastic changes that could cause the pipes to freeze.
- If you’re going to be away from home for an extended period, make sure to leave the heat on no lower than 55 degrees. This will help keep the pipes from freezing while you’re away.
Following these simple tips can help prevent your pipes from freezing this winter.
Why Choose Superior Drainage?
At Superior Drainage, we understand that frozen pipes can be a real hassle. We’re dedicated to helping our customers ensure their pipes are adequately drained and insulated to prevent freezing. We’ve been in business for over 25 years, so you can rest assured that we know what we’re doing. Plus, we offer upfront pricing, so there are no surprises. And as a full-service plumbing company, we can take care of all your needs as your one-stop shop! So, if you’re looking for superior services, look no further than Superior Drainage!
Contact Superior Drainage online or call us at 330-733-3711 if you need plumbing repair around Akron, Ohio.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need to call a plumber for frozen pipes?
Calling a plumber is always a safe option if your pipes are frozen. Frozen pipes can cause a lot of damage to your home and can be costly to repair. If you try to thaw the pipes yourself, you could worsen the problem. A plumber will have the tools and experience necessary to thaw your pipes safely and prevent further damage.
What can happen if my pipes freeze?
You could be dealing with burst pipes and severe property damage if your pipes freeze. Frozen pipes can also lead to a loss of water pressure, which can be a significant inconvenience. In some cases, frozen pipes can even cause flooding. If you think your pipes may be frozen, it’s essential to act immediately to prevent further damage.
