During the winter months, many homes face increased risks of problems with their plumbing. Low temperatures, especially at night, can cause water pipes to freeze. This freezing can often cause pipes to burst. When pipes burst, it causes water to flow freely throughout the area of the break. When this occurs, emergency Plumbing Repair in Manchester NH is necessary to stop the water and repair the pipes. However, the best method for repairing these issues is preventing them from occurring.
Insulating the water pipes
The best method for preventing pipes from freezing in the cold temperatures of winter is to take steps to insulate any exposed pipes, or exposed walls where water pipes may be. Sealing the area thoroughly can prevent heat loss and pipes being exposed to low temperatures. Unfortunately, not everyone is able to completely block the cold temperatures from the water pipes. In these cases, some other steps may be necessary.
When the temperatures are low
The best advice for really low temperatures is to let the water drip, from both the hot and cold lines at the faucet farthest away from the water entry point. If the water branches to other areas of the home or more than one area of the home is exposed to the cold, it may be a good idea to drip faucets in each of these areas. Opening cabinets on sinks can also allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. There are also special tapes that can be wrapped around pipes and plugged in to provide constant warmth to these areas.
If pipes freeze
If pipes freeze in the home, the best option is to take steps to thaw out these pipes, in a safe manner, as soon as possible. A heating pad or hair dryer are good options to thaw the pipes. Calling a plumber can be a better option in these situations, as they are more experienced with safe and efficient methods for thawing frozen water pipes. They can also be available in case the pipes crack or burst to implement Plumbing Repair in Manchester NH.
Other steps to help prepare a home in case of an incident is to know where the main shut off valve for the water is located. This can allow the homeowner to shut off the water before the damage becomes extensive. Browse the site for more information about plumbing and repairs.
