When the temperature drops and the snow starts falling, homeowners can have concerns about their plumbing. The issue of frozen pipes seems to be on everyone’s mind lately. That’s why, as a plumber in Queens, we’re taking this opportunity to talk about why pipes freeze, how to tell if your pipes are frozen, and what you should do in the event your pipes freeze.
Why Pipes Freeze
Water freezes when the temperature gets to 32 degrees F. One way pipes freeze is when the home, for whatever reason, isn’t heated properly. This could happen because the power’s gone out, or because there’s an issue with your home heating system – the interior temperature gets low enough that the water in your water supply lines, drain lines, toilet, and other sites within your home freeze. Sometimes the issue is more localized: while you’re comfortable enough in the living space, the pipes beneath the sink, inside poorly insulated walls, or in other vulnerable spots become cold enough to freeze.
How to Tell if Your Pipes Are Frozen
If it’s cold outside, and you turn on your faucet and get no water, your pipes may be frozen. This is also true if you’re getting a tiny trickle of water: this may mean that your pipes are frozen, but not completely. Frozen pipes can smell bad, too. If you can see the pipe, and it has frost on it, chances are its frozen.
Sometimes frozen pipes burst. If you hear a torrential rush of water, like a waterfall, search your home until you discover where that sound is coming from. The odds are pretty good you may discover water and ice cascading out of a burst pipe. This is an emergency situation. If you know how to shut off the water in your home and you can do so safely at this point, do so. Your next step is to call your plumber in Queens.
What to Do if Your Pipes Freeze
Frozen pipes are a problem that needs immediate attention. The reason you want to deal with frozen pipes right away is that you don’t want the situation to progress to the point where your pipes have burst. The best way to deal with frozen pipes right away is to call your plumber. They’ve got the right tools to thaw your pipes safely. Never, ever use a torch or open flame of any kind to thaw your pipes: the risk of fire is extremely high. Call your plumber as soon as you discover the problem. For 24/7 emergency plumbing service in Queens click here.
