your pipes freeze

Plumbers have been very busy in Ashburton fixing what Mother Nature dished out! With the recent blast of Artic air that hit our area over the Christmas holidays it’s no wonder so many residents, yours truly included, wound up with frozen pipes.

But, as always, knowledge is king so here are some ways to deal with and help prevent pipes from freezing in your home.

How to help prevent pipes from freezing

If temperature dip below freezing and stay there give pipes a helping hand. If pipes run through cabinets or vanities, open the doors to let warmer room temperatures flow in.

Also, keep water moving through the pipes allowing a small trickle of water to run. the cost of the extra water is typically lower than thge cost of reparing a broken pipe.

What do I do if my pipes freeze?

Turn the water main off immediately. Don’t attempt to thaw the pipes without turning the main shut-off valve

Thaw pipes with warm air. You can melt the frozen water in the pipe by warming the air around it with a hair dryer or space heater. Be sure not to leave space heaters unattended and avoid using kerosene heaters or open flames. It should take about 30 minutes depending on the weather, pipe location and how long its been frozen. Any of these factors can make it take longer.

Be careful turning the water back on. Once the pipes are thawed slowly turn the water main back on and check pipes and joints for leaks.

What do I do first if my pipe bursts?

Step one: Turn your water of at the main IMMEDIATELY! This will shut water off to your whole house and stop the deluge that comes from a burst pipe. The quicker you turn off the water main the less damage your home will sustain. Then what?

Call a plumber. Tell them you have no water due a burst pipe and they will make your home a priority.

What are the signs of a frozen pipe?

1. A bulge or crack in a pipe with ice seeping out is a clear indication of a burst pipe.

2. Frost on the outside of a pipe.

3. A foul smell from the drain or faucet is a less-obvious warning sign. ...

4. No water or a slow trickle when a faucet is used.

How Long Does It Take Your Pipes to Freeze?

Pipes can freeze in as little as six to eight hours, meaning they can freeze overnight. If the outside temperature is below 32 degrees F and your pipes are unprotected, your chances for a frozen pipe increase. Indoor pipes are more protected, typically requiring 20 F or lower for freezing to occur, according to the International Code Council.

Will a frozen pipe thaw on its own?

Your pipes will eventually begin to thaw on their own once the temperatures rise above freezing.

How likely is a frozen pipe to burst?

Pipes typically burst when exposed to extremely low temperatures for an extended period of time (anywhere from 1-3 days depending on temperature). This is especially true for pipes located on exterior walls.