Freezing Pipes

Most people living in Sunny Southern California don’t give frozen pipes much thought.  With an average temperature of 75 degrees, it is easy to put pipe insulation at the bottom of the to-do list.  This is precisely why we are in more danger than people living in climates that see regular freezing temperatures.  We are more likely to have exposed non-insulated pipes.  One night of temperatures dropping in the twenties and you could be in a world of trouble.   The exposed pipes may freeze. The ice expands within the pipe causing pressure against the closed faucet in your home.  The pressure is then primed to reach its breaking point and burst.  An ounce of preparation can prevent a world of trouble.  

    1.  Insulate exposed pipes. 

        Measure the length and outside diameter of the exposed pipe and head to your local hardware store.  You can purchase pre-slit and even pre-glued foam insulation and be protected in no time.

    

 2. Look for holes where pipes enter and exit your home.

        Make sure to fill and repair these areas.  Expanding Foam is an excellent option for filling in these vulnerable spaces. 

     

3. Inspect your hose faucets and disconnect the hose from the wall. 

         Hoses may still hold water that could freeze, expand, and force pressure into the pipes in the home.  

    

4. Locate hidden and exterior pipes.

           Open cabinets that house pipes to make sure the heat from the home reaches them.

      It is  especially important when the pipes are located on an outside wall.  

    5. Keep the thermostat set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.  

        Keeping your home warm will assist in keeping the pipes warm. 

   
 6. Let your faucets drip.
 If you know freezing temperatures are inevitable, it may be wise to let the faucet drip. 

        This relieves pressure in the pipes. 
  

    7.  Turn water off at the main line, open and drain faucets.   

        The faucets can then be closed again without the worry of coming home to a flood.  This is an especially helpful tip when protecting a vacation or unoccupied residence.   

In the event that the pipes do freeze, do not try to defrost them with fire.  If there is no leak, open the faucets and use a hair dryer to thaw out the affected area.  Never use electrical devices in water. 

If the pipes do burst and you have water damage to deal with, let us make things easier for you.  Don’t panic, Call SOS 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  We will send reputable, reliable, reasonably priced contractors your way.  

“WITH JUST 1-CALL ~ TRUST SOS TO HANDLE IT ALL!”

1-888-589-1868 

 Or

Click on “Request Services” at

www.sos-crnetwork.com