Despite preventive measures, frozen pipes are an almost inevitable event for many homes and buildings. That is why you must actively check the condition of your pipes to address minor problems before they become major ones.
Check the outside appearance of the pipes to see if they have frozen. An unusual bulging formation, whether inward or outward, indicates that your pipe is frozen or is already causing problems.
It’s also important to note that not all pipe issues are visible. There may be problematic pipes that are difficult to inspect, especially if they are hidden behind a wall, beneath your flooring, or even buried in the ground. As a result, another alternative examination should be performed to check them.
Test your drain pipes by draining sinks, toilets, and shower drains to see if they are draining correctly. Your pipes may be partially or entirely frozen if they do not drain at the normal rate or do not drain at all. This is the time to look for professional plumbers to help you solve the problem.
You must also understand what corrective actions you can take to prevent your frozen pipes from worsening. Here are the things you can do for the different piping problems during winter.
What to Do With Frozen Pipes
When you discover a frozen pipe, the first thing to do is turn off the water supply to that pipe. It could be from your water district’s direct supply or sinks or drains. Assume that iced water acts as a block in the damaged pipes and will spray out once the pipe thaws.
The pipe should then be thawed using warm substances or electric heaters. Prepare a mop or a bucket in case of water leakage. The floors may become cluttered and slippery, which is extremely dangerous for your family. Remove any valuables or electronics you don’t want to be damaged while the pipe thaws.
If you’re unsure of what to do, a plumber can always assist you.
What to Do If a Pipe Bursts
If a pipe in your home bursts, there are some precautions you must take to minimize the damage. Turn off the water and call your local plumber right once; they’ll be able to fix any damage and stop the leak. The longer you leave the water running, the more water will leak from your pipe and into your house.
You can start drying the area while you wait for the plumber by utilizing mops, towels, sponges, or wet/dry vacuums to remove the water. Any gadgets in the room should be unplugged and removed immediately as a safety measure.
Conclusion
Winter brings several property maintenance issues that all landlords should be aware of. A frozen water pipe is one of the most severe problems when the temperature drops.
No matter how well you plan, you may not avoid mistakes when it comes to preparing your home for the winter. It is critical to understand which tasks you can complete on your own and which require the assistance of a professional.
If one of your pipes begins to swell, contact a plumber as soon as possible. They will be able to assist you in keeping your pipes in good working order and resolving any frozen pipes. If you don’t take care of these problems right away, you may have to deal with more expensive repairs later. Do you have frozen, leaking, or damaged pipes that have to be fixed right away in your home?
Only consult with the expert plumbers in Woodland Hills, CA. Candu Plumbing & Rooter is a Los Angeles County-based company of licensed and certified plumbing professionals who will care for those troublesome frozen pipes for you. Contact us today!