Dealing with and preventing frozen pipes, especially in a city like Chicago, IL with its harsh winters, is an important aspect of home maintenance. Here are some tips from ServiceMaster by Elite Restoration for prevention and what to do if you find yourself with frozen pipes.
Frozen Pipe Prevention
- Install a heating cable. For the coldest climates, consider installing electrical heating cables around crawlspace pipes to be sure that no water is able to freeze.
- Insulate Pipes: Insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages. Use foam pipe insulation, which is easy to install.
- Seal Leaks: Seal leaks that allow cold air into your home, particularly where pipes run through walls or floors. Even a small opening can let in enough cold air to freeze a pipe.
- Let Faucets Drip: During extremely cold spells, keep one or two faucets running slowly to prevent water from freezing.
- Keep Thermostat Consistent: Keep your thermostat set at the same temperature during day and night. Although this may increase your heating bill, it can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
- Open Cabinet Doors: Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing, especially if your sinks are on an exterior wall.
- Turn off appliances.
- If your washing machine sits in an unheated garage, turn off water supply lines and disconnect the hoses, especially if you know that temperatures that day are expected to drop below freezing.
- If you know you’re going to be away from home for a few days or more, consider completely turning off your main water valve to avoid plumbing system damages.
- Be sure to disconnect outside water hoses before cold weather hits so any sitting water in the hoses can’t freeze, expand, and destroy the hose or connecting pipes inside.
What to Do With Your Pipes When Winter Arrives?
Once the temperatures drop, you’ll need to take additional action to help prevent your pipes from freezing. Follow these steps to prevent frozen pipes this winter:
- Maintain a consistent thermostat setting. The American Red Cross recommends keeping your thermostat set to the same temperature all day and night to help maintain a consistent heat level and reduce the risk of freezing pipes.
- Do not set your thermostat lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter.
- Keep garage doors closed when not in use, especially if there are any water lines in the garage or on walls adjacent to the garage.
- Let cold water drip from faucets served by exposed lines. The American Red Cross says that even the smallest trickle can help prevent these pipes from freezing.
Dealing with Frozen Pipes
- Identify the Frozen Pipe: Look for frost on the pipe or the pipe feeling extremely cold to the touch.
- Turn Off Water Main: Before attempting to thaw the pipe, turn off the main water supply to prevent water from flowing through the pipe as it begins to thaw.
- Thaw the Pipe: Use a hair dryer, heat lamp, electric heating pad, or towels soaked in hot water to thaw the pipe. Never use open flame devices.
- Check for Leaks: After the pipe is thawed, check for leaks, as the frozen water may have caused cracks in the pipe.
- Consult a Professional: If you are unable to thaw the pipe, or if you discover a leak, it's best to consult a professional plumber.
Contact Chicago, IL's Most Trusted Restoration Company
If you’re in Chicago, IL, and you find yourself dealing with water damage from frozen pipes, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Contact ServiceMaster by Elite Restoration at 773-678-9111 for expert water damage restoration services.
Our team is equipped to handle all aspects of water damage caused by frozen pipes, ensuring your home is restored to its pre-damage condition. Remember, acting quickly in these situations can minimize damage and restoration costs.
