Frozen Pipes: Part 2

Last week we talked about frozen pipes and how to prevent them. Because water expands as it freezes, frozen water in your pipes can cause serious problems. The expanding water puts pressure on whatever its inside of- in this case, your pipes. This can cause pipes to break and leak, which can cause tons of damage. Pipes that are most likely to freeze are those that are exposed to the cold like swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and water in pipes that are in unheated areas like your basement or garage.

With the cold Georgia winter weather fast approaching, we’re going to talk about how to thaw your frozen pipes. Although preventing frozen pipes is the ideal course of action, no matter how many precautions you take its not 100% possible to always prevent your pipes from freezing.

Here are some tips on dealing with frozen pipes.

1. If you turn on a faucet and only a small trickle comes out, its likely that you have a frozen pipe.
2. Keep your faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe, the water will begin to melt and flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help it melt more quickly.
3. Apply heat to the frozen section of pipe. You can do this by wrapping an electric heating pad around it, using an electric hair dryer, using an electric space heater, or wrapping the pipes with towels soaked in hot water.
4. Continue applying heat to the pipes until your full water pressure is restored.
5. Remember- if you find one frozen pipe it is likely that you may have others as well. Check all your faucets!

If you are unable to locate or treat your frozen pipe, call a professional plumber immediately to avoid damage! You can call the trusted professionals at Masterflo 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Call (678) 822-7095!