Preventing Frozen Pipes and faucets in Delaware

How do you make sure your home pipes do not freeze during the cold weather?

Frozen pipes and faucets can be a major issue for Delaware homes, especially during the colder months. When water freezes inside pipes, it expands, causing the pipes to crack or even burst. This leads to water damage, too-expensive repairs, and, in some cases, complete pipe replacement.

Frozen faucet in winter. Outdoor faucet frosted

Here are a few reasons why frozen pipes are dangerous for Delaware homes:

1. Water damage: Burst pipes can lead to extensive water damage in your home. The water can cause warping of flooring and drywall, as well as damage to personal belongings and furniture.
2. Health hazards: Water damage also creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow, which can pose a serious health risk to those living in the home.
3. Costly repairs: Repairing or replacing damaged pipes can be expensive; in some cases, homeowners may need to hire a professional plumber to do the job.

To prevent frozen pipes, it’s important to take a proactive approach. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your pipes don’t freeze:

1. Insulate pipes: Insulating pipes in your home can help prevent them from freezing. This can be done by wrapping pipes in foam insulation or installing a heating cable.
2. Maintain a consistent temperature: Keeping your home at a consistent temperature will help prevent pipes from freezing. It’s recommended to keep the temperature above 55°F, even when you’re away.
3. Allow water to circulate: Allowing water to circulate through pipes can help prevent them from freezing. This can be achieved by leaving faucets slightly open or opening cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

If your pipes do freeze, it’s important to act quickly to prevent them from bursting. Here’s what you can do:

1. Thaw the pipes: You can use a hair dryer, heat lamp, or hot towels to thaw frozen pipes. Never use an open flame to thaw pipes, as this can be extremely dangerous.
2. Call Done Right Today Plumbing: If you’re unable to thaw the pipes yourself, it’s best to call a professional plumber to handle the job. We will be able to diagnose the problem and make any necessary repairs.

Done Right Today Plumbing and Drain Cleaning can help Delaware homeowners prevent and deal with frozen pipes. Our team of experienced plumbers can offer advice on preventing pipes from freezing and, if needed, repairing any damage caused by frozen pipes. Contact us today to learn more.