Water can be a fickle thing, especially when frozen. If water freezes inside a pipe, it will expand and finally crack under the pressure. This can lead to costly repairs and a mess when it thaws. The water expanding as ice inside the pipe can cause an increase in water pressure.

This excessive water pressure can cause pipe failure in other places as well. The most vulnerable places for frozen pipes are attics, garages, crawl spaces, and in the outer walls. Anywhere that isn’t heavily insulated or exposed to the outdoors during winter is at risk of freezing.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

• Install pipes in an insulated area
• Bury pipes below the frost line
• Install pipes where heat is accessible. Avoid attics, garages, and sheds.
• Fit pipes with insulated sleeves
• Letting a faucet drip during the extreme cold will keep the water running, avoiding pipe bursts.
• Run hot water through a line to break up any ice forming
• If away from home, set thermostat no lower than 55 degrees.

Nothing stops you in your tracks like frozen pipes. If you have a second home that is left vacant during the winters, make sure it is winterized before coming back in the spring to find a wet mess.

Fixing Frozen/Broken Pipes

• Immediately turn off water supply
• Research pipe schematics for your home
• Locate the cracked pipe and replace broken sections with insulation
• Shut off electrical current for the area affected
• Contact a plumbing professional immediately for emergency repairs

With the mercury dropping during the harsh Pennsylvania winters, staying inside is sometimes vital. A healthy, maintained water system is crucial to not only comfort but safety as well. Identify the symptoms of a frozen and/or cracked pipe and take action immediately.

Don’t wait until the ice melts inside the pipes causing water damage to the structure and exposure to live electrical wires. Contact McHales Plumbing, Heating & Remodeling for 24/7 emergency services. The faster the response, the less damage will be caused.