Chilly winters can be quite the adventure, but it’s a different story when that frosty bite reaches your pipes. Frozen pipes can be a significant problem. This guide from our Plumbing Company in Rochester, MN, will help identify and prevent frozen pipes during winter and keep the water flowing.
Signs You Have Frozen Pipes and Fixtures | Plumbing Company in Rochester, MN
So, how can you tell when your plumbing is feeling the chill?
1. Frigid Faucets: Turn on the tap, and if you’re greeted with a mere trickle or, worse, silence, that’s a red flag. Frozen pipes can obstruct water flow, leaving you high and dry.
2. Frosty Exterior Walls: Spotting frost or ice buildup, especially near water pipes, is a telltale sign that the cold is creeping in.
3. Peculiar Odors: Odd smells, like a funky sewer stench, can waft through your home when pipes freeze. This is often due to trapped air in the plumbing, so trust your nose.
4. Strange Popping Noises: When pipes freeze, they can expand and contract, creating strange popping or cracking sounds. Don’t ignore the symphony; it’s your plumbing’s cry for help.
5. Lukewarm Water: If your hot water takes a cold turn or your showers become more of an ‘icy surprise,’ chances are your pipes are dealing with the freeze.
Also Read – 5 Signs Your Home Needs A Plumbing Inspection | Plumbing Company In Rochester, MN
What to Do if a Pipe Bursts?
A burst pipe can be a homeowner’s nightmare, especially when freezing temperatures take their toll. When water inside the pipe freezes and expands, it’s like a ticking time bomb ready to burst.
However, quick action can save the day. Here’s what you need to do when a pipe decides to let loose:
1. Locate the Main Valve: Find it near the water line entering your home or after the water meter. When you do, turn it clockwise to stop the water flow. It’s like putting a cap on the chaos.
2. Electrical Safety: Water and electricity don’t mix, so if there’s any chance of electrical panels or wiring getting wet, play it safe. Shut off the power to prevent any shocking surprises.
3. Protect Your Valuables: Remember to move belongings near the burst pipe to the drier ground. A little prevention can go a long way in saving your stuff.
Proactive Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes
As the colder months approach, follow these savvy steps to ensure your plumbing system stays cozy:
1. Hose Alert: Disconnect garden hoses and drain exterior hose bibs.
2. Irrigation: Remember your irrigation system. Drain and blow it out with compressed air to hibernate safely until spring.
3. Pool Protection: If you have a pool heater or supply lines, disconnect and drain them. They’ll thank you later.
4. Wrap It Up: Give your exposed pipes some love with proper insulation. The cold’s favorite hiding spots are the crawl spaces, unfinished basements, garages, and attics.
5. Heat Tape Hug: Consider adding heat tape to the mix for pipes braving the great outdoors or extreme cold.
6. Thermostat TLC: Keep your thermostat set to a minimum of 55 degrees to ensure your home is a warm, welcoming space for you and your pipes.
Choose the Premier Plumbing Company in Rochester, MN, to Deal with Frozen Pipes
When you need help with frozen or burst pipes in Rochester, MN, B & C Plumbing is the go-to company.
Our plumbing services include repairs and replacements alongside emergency services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
