Photo: WTOP

Normally, water flows through pipes with no problem. This is not the case when the weather is very cold and the drop in temperature causes the water to freeze. When this happens the water, which is now ice, expands. This can cause pipes to crack, which is obviously a big problem, once the water starts to melt.

You need to try and prevent the pipes in your home from freezing. You also need to know what to do, if freezing does occur.

Preventing Water Pipes from Freezing

Pipes that are located outside of your home are especially susceptible to freezing; this includes pipes which lead to swimming pools or sprinkler systems. It’s a good idea to drain these pipes during colder months. Leave valves open so that any excess water can drain away.

Pipes in unheated areas of your home are also more likely to freeze. This includes pipes in attics and basements. Insulating these areas of your home can help prevent freezing from taking place. It can also help you to save money on heating bills.

As well as insulating your property, you should also consider fitting pipe sleeves to the pipes themselves. Doing so helps to insulate the pipes against the cold.

Photo: The Spruce

What to do if a Pipe Freezes

Hopefully, you can prevent the pipes in your home from freezing. However, it’s useful to know what you need to do if you ever have a problem with frozen water pipes in your home.

• Keep the tap open as you attempt to thaw the pipe. Once the water starts to drip through it will help to speed up the thawing process.
• Locate the area of the pipe where the water is frozen.
• Use a heating pad to commence the thawing process. You can also use other items, such as a heater or a hairdryer. Do not be tempted to use a naked flame from an item such as a blowtorch.
• Check all of the pipes in your home for signs of freezing.

Photo: Youtube

If you have any problems dealing with a frozen water pipe, you should call experts such as Ontimelocalplumber.com.au for help. It’s also a good idea to ask a professional to examine the pipes in your home, once there has been a problem with freezing. They should be able to tell you whether or not the pipes have sustained any damage, as a result of the freezing. Any damaged pipes should be repaired or replaced, in order to avoid potential leaks and flooding.

You should never take the water pipes in your home for granted. Making sure you protect them during cold weather is essential, if you want to ensure that they remain in good working order. If you do have a problem with frozen pipes, that you are finding it difficult to resolve, you should seek expert assistance as soon as possible, in order to limit the chance of significant damage being caused.