Frozen pipes are always a growing risk during the winter and can lead to severe water damage in your home or business. In fact, according to the State Firm, the average claim for frozen pipe damage in 2022 alone was $20,000. Any uninsulated pipe exposed to temperatures below 20°F runs the risk of freezing, expanding, and bursting. 

Fortunately, you can take several measures to minimize this risk. If you experience a frozen pipe burst during the winter in Redwood Falls, MN, or any surrounding area, contact A1 Cleaning for assistance. Our team is composed of experienced professionals who can help you clean up and restore your property after such a disaster.

Signs That You Have a Frozen Pipe

Always keep an eye open for signs indicating your pipes may be at risk of freezing during winter. That will make it easier for you to take timely preventative measures to avoid extreme frozen pipe damage to your property.

Typically, the first thing you may notice when you have a frozen pipe is water draining more slowly than usual from your faucets. Frost may also start to form on the outside of exposed pipes. You may also hear a hissing or gurgling sound from your plumbing.

Dampness or puddles on your walls could also be a telltale sign your pipes have an urgent issue. Eventually, the frozen pipe will develop bulges and cracks, causing water to leak into your property’s structural components.

Tips to Minimize Frozen Pipe Damage

If you notice any warning signs of a frozen pipe, here are some steps to avoid significant damage to your home or business.

Keep the Temperature in Your Property Above 65°F

Many pipes freeze when temperatures drop below 20°F. You can avoid this problem by keeping the temperature inside your home above 65°F all the time. If your home uses central heating, ensure you adjust the main thermostat to at least 55°F. 

Additionally, set space heaters in different areas of the property to keep the temperature up. It helps to leave the inside doors open when the heating is on to allow warm air to circulate throughout your home.

Shut Off the Main Water Supply

Turning off the water supply at the valve that leads to the frozen pipe. This will immediately stop water flow through the pipe and prevent it from bursting. It would help if you also open all faucets in the surrounding area to drain any remaining water from the pipes. 

Thaw the Frozen Pipe

If you can access the frozen pipe, try to thaw it out using an electric heating pad or a hair dryer. Carefully place the heating pad over the frozen area and hold it down for several minutes.

However, if you plan to thaw a frozen pipe, don’t use a blowtorch or any other open flame as the heat source; this can cause damage. Remember to keep the nearest faucet turned on, so the water can be drained out of the pipe as it melts.

Check for Signs of Damage in Other Areas of the Pipe

The chances are high that other parts of the water pipe have also been damaged due to freezing. This is why it’s essential to check for additional signs of damage once you finish thawing the frozen section of the pipe. 

If you have any hidden pipes in your property, it is challenging to spot signs of damage. Fortunately, you can call a plumber to help you do a thorough inspection. 

Contact an Expert

Avoid the risk of severe frozen pipe damage by hiring a professional plumber to handle any plumbing issues in your home or business. These technicians have the skills and equipment required to inspect your pipes and perform repairs. They can also advise you on how to prevent future frozen pipe problems.

How to Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing Again

After you’ve repaired your frozen pipes, take suitable measures to prevent the problem from happening again. Here are a few tips for getting started;

• Keep your home warm during the cold months to prevent the pipes from freezing.
• Insulate exposed pipes to avert any heat loss. This is particularly important for pipes in unheated areas such as basements and attics.
• Ask a plumber to help you relocate exposed pipes to protect them from the elements.
• Open the kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around your plumbing pipes.
• If you plan to be away for an extended period during the winter, leave the thermostat in your home at a minimum of 55 degrees to maintain warmer temperatures.

Let A1 Cleaning Professionals Help You Restore Your Property After Frozen Pipe Damage

Dealing with the aftermath of frozen pipe damage can be highly stressful and time-consuming. That’s why it’s a good idea to hire a professional cleaning company to take care of the mess. At A1 Cleaning, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality, reliable Cleaning and restoration solutions in Redwood Falls, MN, and nearby communities. 

We are fully insured and licensed to provide residential and commercial services. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you fix the impact of your frozen pipe damage.