Things get cold here in Lloydminster this time of year. We’re not exaggerating, and anyone who thinks there’s nothing wrong with a little dip in temperature clearly hasn’t dealt with burst pipes this year. As temperatures drop, the water in your plumbing system could start to freeze up. Especially pipes that are on the outside of your home, they run the risk of freezing, expanding, and rupturing your pipes.
But wait, that’s not the end of it. Rupture pipes could then start profusely leaking water as warmer temperatures hit and the ice thaws, so this kind of problem is really two problems in one! That’s why it’s so important we talk to homeowners about preventing this kind of issue.
Take it from the experts on plumbing in Lloydminster, we know exactly how you can prevent frozen pipes and everything that comes with it. Just make sure you call us if you think your pipes are starting to freeze and you’d like to deal with them head-on.
How Does My Pipe “Burst?”
Let’s take a quick lesson in high school physics. We promise we won’t make it too boring, and you’ll probably save money on pipe repairs or cleaning up if you pay attention!
Your cold water pipes are usually a bit warmer than the temperature outside, but sometimes our weather gets so cold that your pipes become dangerously frigid. If the water in your pipes starts to freeze, it will expand. This expansion is powerful enough to completely rupture, split, or break your pipes, causing pretty massive holes to appear.
Eventually, once that water thaws, it will start gushing out of the hole in your pipe and cause a leak that could be pretty catastrophic. That’s why it’s so important, now more than ever, to prevent this kind of thing from happening.
Prevent a Frozen Pipe
Here are some nifty ways you could prevent your pipes from freezing right now, and without our help!
- Keep cabinets and doors open. Much of your plumbing runs behind cabinets in your kitchen and bathroom. This is so they remain out of sight and out of mind. However, this also means they’re a little far away from the warmth of your heater! Open cabinets and doors to allow for maximum airflow and heat to reach your pipes from your heating system.
- Run your water slightly throughout the day. Running water is a lot harder to freeze than stagnant water. It’s why rivers and waterfalls are often the last water sources to freeze during the winter. Try letting your faucet drip slightly throughout the day if temperatures are very cold. This can be enough to stop your pipes from freezing.
- Insulate your pipes. Hardware stores sell pipe insulation that works exceptionally well. Also, you could use a pool noodle and some masking tape to do a minimal job of insulating them, especially if you’re just trying this out for the first time.
Don’t risk having your pipes freeze and then dealing with the expensive repairs afterwards. Follow this advice and make sure you call us when you need help.
Contact Guardian Plumbing & Heating Ltd. Lloydminster’s Plumbing and Heating Authority.