How to Protect Your Facility From Frozen Pipes

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

If a burst pipe affects your facility in Acworth, GA, you can call a commercial restoration service

When you think of flooding, you might think of warm-weather events like heavy rain. Water damage, though, can also happen in winter weather due to a burst pipe.

What Causes a Pipe to Burst?

When water freezes, it expands, putting pressure on the container it is in. Frozen water can cause pipes of any material to burst. Pipes that are most susceptible to freezing are:

• Outdoor sprinkler lines or swimming pool supply lines
• Water supply lines in unheated areas of a building
• Pipes against exterior walls with little or no insulation
  

How Can I Protect Pipes From Freezing?

Before cold weather hits, drain outdoor systems such as water sprinkler lines and hoses to eliminate standing water. Close inside valves that supply outdoor hose bibs. Leave the outside valve open to allow remaining water to drain or expand without bursting a pipe. Insulate attics, crawl spaces and garages where pipes are located. Consider using pipe sleeves, heat tape, heat cable or other insulating material on pipes that are exposed to cold weather.

During periods of very cold temperatures, keep the water dripping from the faucet connected to the exposed pipe. Running water is less likely to cause a frozen pipe, even if the amount of moving water is very small.

Consider keeping the thermostat at the same setting both day and night. While utility bills may be higher from the extra hours of heat, you can potentially avoid the damage of a burst pipe and standing water.

How Can I Thaw a Frozen Pipe?

If a faucet provides only a trickle of water, treat it as a frozen pipe. Keep the faucet open to allow running water to help melt ice inside the pipe. Heat the pipe with an electric heating pad, space heater, shop light or towels soaked in hot water. Do not leave electric heat sources unattended. Do not use an open flame device such as a blowtorch or kerosene heater.

If a burst pipe affects your facility in Acworth, GA, you can call a commercial restoration service to help with cleanup so you can get your business running again.