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Learn 5 Easy Tips on How to Thaw Frozen Pipes in the South

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how to thaw frozen pipes in the South

Homeowners in the South are not used to lengthy, chilly winters but are particularly susceptible to freezing pipes that can eventually lead to bursting. So, as a homeowner, having knowledge of how to thaw frozen pipes and prevent them is necessary to avoid water damage in your home.

Since many homes have insufficient insulation of pipes and faucets outside may not be off. The pipes are more likely to freeze if they are not protected and the temperature outside is lower than 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Frozen Pipes– High Risk for Southern Part

Not only does the northern part experience freezing pipes, but also the southern part. Homes in the south are even at a higher risk of dealing with frozen pipes because their properties are not built and designed for freezing temperatures and many are not familiar with winterizing methods. When chilly weather sets in, many warm-weather structures are not ready, resulting in ruptured pipes, blockages of ice, and flooded homes.

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes: Check For Signs

 Watch out for these signs to check if your water system is frozen:

  • No water comes out even if you turn on the faucet. This is one of the most apparent signs that a pipe has an ice blockage.
  • Frosty pipes develop on the pipes’ surfaces.
  • Unusual and odorous smells from a faucet or drain suggest frozen pipes.

Easy Tips on How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

Thawing a frozen pipe immediately and properly is important. Here are some tips that can help you get the water flowing and avoid a ruptured pipe.

  • Keep the faucet open if you think that a pipe is frozen. Water will start to flow which will help to melt the ice in the pipe.
  • Be sure that you know where the main water valve is outside of your home. You will need to turn off the main water valve if there’s a leak of meltwater. 
  • Apply heat to the frozen part of the pipe using different sources of heat such as a heating pad, electric hairdryer, portable heater, or soaked towels in hot water then wrap them around the pipes. Be sure that electrical cords don’t come into contact with water.
  • Call a professional if you can’t locate the frozen area or you can’t get the pipe to thaw. Continuously apply heat until the pressure of the water is back to normal. 
  • Check other faucets in your home. Even if one pipe freezes, others may freeze also.

Prevention Tips

  1. Shut off the water/ water system control valves right away once you notice a leak.
  2. Insulate pipes, especially in unheated, interior spaces of your home such as the basement, garage, or attic. Pipe insulation is made from fiberglass, polyethylene, or foam. However, emergency insulation may be necessary if cold weather is coming your way. You can use a wadded or compressed newspaper as a solution temporarily.
  3. Allow faucets to run, even in a slow drip to prevent ice blockages from forming in your plumbing system. Water movement produces a small amount of heat and prevents pipes from freezing. 
  4. Keep garage doors shut to prevent more freezing air from entering.
  5. Open interior doors, kitchen, and bathroom cabinets regularly to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
  6. Set the thermostat settings regularly to the same temperature during the day and the night to prevent ice blockage.
  7. Seal any openings and caulk any holes or cracks around piping, on the interior and exterior walls. This will increase insulation in your home.
  8. Use electrical heating tape directly to the pipe to retain heat. Be sure to follow instructions and safety procedures in the manual when applying it to your plumbing system.

Contact Water Damage Rancho Cucamonga Of Superior Restoration

Even if you sometimes prepare your pipes for winter, a lower temperature can still make anyone’s pipes freeze and eventually burst. A ruptured water system can lead to expensive and extensive damage. Though you already have an idea of how to thaw frozen pipes, seeking a professional can be of big help, too.

With 24/7 emergency service, our team at Superior Restoration is committed to providing quality service!  Please don’t hesitate to call us today, Water Damage Rancho Cucamonga.

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