Frozen Pipes 101

Frozen pipes are a common issue for Washington, D.C., homeowners in the winter. They pose a serious threat to your plumbing system and can lead to burst pipes and water damage in your home. Follow these tips from the plumbing experts at Len The Plumber Heating & Air to safely thaw your home’s frozen pipes and prevent your pipes from freezing in the future.

Why Are Frozen Pipes an Issue?

Water expands as it freezes, putting pressure on whatever is containing it. In this case, your home’s plumbing system. Too much pressure can cause pipes to crack or break completely.

Pipes most at risk of freezing include:

• Outdoor hose bibs
• Water supply lines
• Sprinkler lines
• Pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages
• Pipes running along an exterior wall that doesn’t have insulation

How Can I Prevent Pipes From Freezing?

Temperatures in Washington, D.C., can swing wildly in winter, meaning you can be caught unprepared for a cold snap. Here are some tips to prevent your pipes from freezing:

• Close garage doors as an extra layer against the elements
• Open kitchen or cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate
• Keep the thermostat at 55 degrees or higher when you are away
• When extreme temperatures hit, allow faucets to drip to keep water running through your pipes
• Turn off outside water sources and drain hose bibs

What Do I Do if My Pipes Freeze?

If you suspect you have a frozen pipe, there are a few things you can do carefully to help thaw them. Calling your licensed plumber is always your safest choice.

• Turn off the water supply. This will avoid a major flood if the pipes burst.
• Open the faucet connected to the suspected frozen pipe to help release pressure built up by the expanded water. It will also help you determine if water is once again flowing
• Check the suspected pipe for a bulge or frost. It’s likely in an area least exposed to warm air.
• Attempt to thaw the pipe slowly and carefully. You can use a hair dryer on a low setting and gently move it along the frozen area. Start in the area of the pipe closest to the faucet so the thawed ice has a way out.
• Wrap towels soaked in hot water around the frozen pipe, changing them out as they cool.
• Use a portable space heater to warm the area around pipes in a larger area, monitoring the heater and the pipes.

Rely on Us for Frozen & Burst Pipe Repairs in Washington, D.C.

Frozen pipes freeze your home in its tracks. Recognizing you have a frozen pipe before it bursts can help save your home from major water damage. At Len The Plumber Heating & Air, our experts can handle your frozen or burst pipe with our 24/7 emergency plumbing repairs.

Contact us online now to schedule professional plumbing services in Washington, D.C.