Frozen Pipe Repair

Frozen Pipe Repair: Prevention Tips You Need to Know

In Texas, near the Galveston and Galveston Bay area, it’s not often that we must take measures to prevent frozen pipes, but it is helpful to know what to do when the temperature begins to drop.

As water freezes, it expands which can cause clogging and in extreme conditions, your pipes can burst. Learning how to prevent frozen pipes can prevent costly construction and plumbing repairs.

We have put together a checklist of ways to prevent frozen pipes.

Add a few degrees to your thermostat to keep your attic from falling below 32 degrees
Insulate pipes that may not benefit from your home’s heat
Keep cabinet doors open on any pipes on outside walls that are inside a cabinet
Allowing your hot water to drip is a good preventative measure
Using an electric space heater in your attic can be a great option if it can be operated safely.
Turning off your water at the source

Take these precautions to winterize your outdoor faucets:

Remove hoses from outdoor faucets
Drain any water from outdoor faucets
Add outdoor, insulated faucet covers

Frozen Pipe Repair: What to do if you have Frozen Pipes

If your pipes freeze, it is imperative that you turn off the water at the main source to prevent additional water from flowing into your home’s plumbing. If you can locate the location of the freeze, you can use a low-heat source like a hair dryer. Thawing the frozen section of the pipe may result in leaking pipes, so be prepared for a clean-up just in case.

Frozen Pipe Repair: What to do if your Frozen Pipes Burst

Turn off the water at the source if possible. You may need to contact city utilities in case you do not have access.
It is best to use a certified residential plumbing contractor to make the plumbing repairs.
Clean up! Depending on the severity of the pipe burst, this may require your homeowner’s insurance to get involved.

Prevent Frozen Pipes to Save Money and Prevent Heartache

The say is an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This is absolutely true when speaking about preventing frozen pipes. Pipe-related flooding can cost tens of thousands of dollars, not to mention the emotional toll caused by your family being displaced during the repairs.