How to avoid frozen pipes during the colder months
Posted on 19th December 2022 at 13:15
As the temperature outside plummets, the risk of our pipes freezing increases. Your pipes become vulnerable when the water inside them drops below zero
degrees. When this happens, it will put a lot of stress on your pipes.
Keep a close eye on pipes that are stored in uninsulated or unheated areas, such as the loft or garage. This is where your pipes will be most vulnerable during
the colder months.
Why is it bad to let your pipes freeze?
When water in a drainpipe freezes, it begins to expand. This causes extra tension, and eventually the pipe may split. When a pipe splits, it will leak as the water inside defrosts. Having a leaking pipe leads to many problems, such as:
• Damp and mould,
• Poor water quality,
• Structural damage,
• Increase in your water bill.
Another problem with a frozen pipe is the potential for it to burst. If this happens, you need to call your local drainage experts right away to prevent wastewater from contaminating your home. You should also turn off your water supply as soon as you can.
Things to look out for if your pipes have frozen
It’s not always obvious that your pipes are freezing, until it’s too late. Fortunately, there are a few things to look out for that will indicate your pipes have started to freeze.
• There’s less or no water coming out of your taps or shower when being used,
• You notice frost on the outside of your pipes,
• You hear gurgling sounds from icy water flowing through your pipes,
• There’s a horrible smell coming from your drains or taps.
Making sure regular maintenance and CCTV surveys are performed on your drainage will help prevent your pipes from developing problems such as leaks, or becoming damaged.
How can I prevent my pipes from freezing?
How can I prevent my pipes from freezing?
There are a few things you can do around your home to help prevent your pipes from freezing and becoming damaged.
Add insulation. Adding insulation to your pipes and water tank, helps keep the water inside warm. This not only helps to prevent pipes from freezing, but will reduce energy consumption from not having to keep heating up your water.
Have your boiler checked. If your boiler hasn’t been serviced in a while, get it checked as soon as you can. A faulty boiler increases the chance of your pipes freezing.
Plan for when you’re away. If you are planning on leaving a property empty for a prolonged period, keep the heating at a manageable temperate (no lower than 12 degrees). This helps prevent your pipes freezing whilst not in use.
Ways you can thaw a frozen pipe
If your pipes have become frozen, then you can thaw them yourself by using these methods:
• Soak a towel in warm water and wrap it around your pipes. Make sure to soak the towel again if it cools,
• Use a hairdryer and slowly move it around the outside of the pipe,
• Position a portable heater nearby the frozen pipes.
IMPORTANT: Make sure that the heat source isn’t too hot to avoid the pipe expanding too much from the extreme temperate change.
If you don’t feel comfortable attempting to thaw a frozen pipe yourself, call in your local drainage experts.
Getting help with a broken or burst pipe
Do you suspect you have a broken or burst pipe? Contact Semilong Services today.
We are available 24/7, 365 days a year for all your drainage emergencies.
Call now and we’ll be with you as soon as possible.
Tagged as: Drain Care, Frozen Pipes
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