Templeton CSD releases tips to prevent frozen pipes
–With winter’s dropping temperatures, the possibility of water pipes freezing and bursting is heightened. Templeton Community Services District has released a list of tips that can help the public to prevent, identify, and thaw frozen pipes.
As ice expands it pushes water toward the closed faucet, causing water pressure to build between the ice blockage and the faucet. The pipe eventually ruptures under the pressure. Pipes that are most at risk are those against exterior walls, in unheated interior areas such as attics, or where your water service enters the home through the foundation.
Follow these tips to help keep pipes working in winter months:
1. Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night – though that may incur a higher heating bill, it will be preventing a costly repair.
2. Suspect a frozen pipe if only a trickle comes out when a faucet is turned on.
3. To thaw frozen pipes, apply heat to the frozen section of pipe using an electric heating pad, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater, or towels soaked in hot water.
4. Keep the faucet open while treating the frozen area. As the ice begins to melt, water will begin to flow and will help liquefy the ice in the pipe.
5. Check other faucets in the home – if one pipe freezes, so may others.
6. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber for assistance.
For future protection consider relocating exposed pipes and/or adding insulation to attics, crawl spaces, as well as around exterior pipes.
For more information, contact a licensed plumber or building professional.
