In winter, one of the biggest concerns for homeowners is plumbing and, more specifically, the chance of pipes freezing. Harsh weather conditions are usually a problem for homeowners as they can cause damage and a lot of discomfort. Nevertheless, there are a number of misconceptions about frozen pipes, which may cause wrong actions.
Rooter Man Plumbing is here to provide accurate diagnoses and high-quality services. Here are some of the most popular misconceptions about frozen pipes and tips to prevent frozen pipes this winter.
All Frozen Pipes Will Burst
It is generally thought that any pipe that freezes will freeze and then bust. Frozen pipes burst because of the pressure exerted by ice inside the pipes. However, not all frozen pipes are a threat. Some factors define whether the pipe will burst or not, including its material and thickness, water pressure, and the time for which the pipe is frozen.
To prevent pipes from bursting and having to spend a lot of money on repairs, it is advisable to insulate the pipes and have them checked by a professional plumber on a regular basis. There is no harm in preventing a disaster from occurring in the first place.
Call a Plumber at the First Sign of a Frozen Pipe
It’s only natural to want to call a plumber as soon as you notice a pipe has frozen. However, not all frozen pipes need a technician to come and sort out the problem, so it is crucial to act fast. Sometimes, you can thaw a frozen pipe without causing more harm and damaging your home or damaging yourself through the correct procedures.
Nonetheless, if you are hesitant or have some concerns about it, it is better to address a plumber. This can assist in minimizing the extent of the damage and will assist in avoiding hefty expenses for repair or even replacement.
Damage Only Happens if a Pipe Bursts
Another of the myths is that frozen pipes are not a problem as long as they do not break. The fact is that frozen pipes may damage the house even before they burst. The only downside is that water tends to expand when it freezes, so it puts pressure on the walls of the pipe, which may create cracks or, in the worst case, leaks.
Such issues can be invisible, but they can result in water damage and end up costing a lot of money in repairs. If you have a frozen pipe, you should call a plumbing service as soon as possible so that the problem does not worsen.
Propane Torches Are Safe for Thawing Pipes
Some people even believe that using a propane torch is a fast solution to unfreeze frozen pipes. Nevertheless, this approach is rather risky and should not be used. The open flame can cause fires, damage to the pipe joints, or even carbon monoxide poisoning. However, to prevent damage to the pipes, it is better to use a heat gun, heating tape, warm towels, etc. These are helpful in preventing damage to your plumbing system.
The Problem Gets Solved With Warmer Weather
This is not the case, as many people think that the risk of frozen pipes is over as soon as the temperatures rise. Warmer weather can indeed help to melt the ice in the pipes, but this doesn’t solve the problem or prevent it from recurring.
Pipes that are located in areas that are not heated, areas with little insulation, or areas near the exterior walls of your home will still freeze even if the outside temperature is not very low. The best thing is to prevent damages that may occur at any time of the year, for instance, by insulating the pipes and sealing cracks.
Learning these common myths about frozen pipes will help you avoid undue stress and finances that need to be spent. Not all frozen pipes will burst, but it is important to take care of the problem. Call Rooter Man Plumbing and set up an appointment for one of our specialists to assist you. The services we provide include repiping to make sure that your plumbing system is well-maintained during the winter season.
