A Frosty Reception: Preventing and Dealing with Frozen Pipes

In Traverse City, Michigan, where winter temperatures frequently dip below freezing, protecting your home from the hazards of frozen pipes is a critical aspect of home maintenance. Frozen pipes can lead to bursts, resulting in costly damage and significant inconvenience. Here’s how you can prevent this common winter problem and what to do if you find yourself dealing with frozen pipes. 

Preventing Frozen Pipes 

1. Insulate Pipes: The most effective way to prevent pipes from freezing is by ensuring they are well-insulated. Pay special attention to areas where pipes are exposed to the cold, such as basements, attics, and garages. Use foam pipe insulation for the best results. 

2. Seal Leaks: Inspect your home for any leaks that might allow cold air to enter, particularly around utility service areas. Sealing these leaks with caulk or spray foam can significantly reduce the risk of pipe freezing. 

3. Keep the Heat On: If you plan to be away from home for an extended period during the winter, keep your home’s heating system running at a minimum of 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This warmth helps to prevent the air inside the walls, where pipes are located, from dropping to freezing temperatures. 

4. Let Faucets Drip: Allow a slight drip from faucets when the weather report predicts severe cold. This trickle helps prevent pressure build-up within the pipes, reducing the risk of bursting if they do freeze. 

Dealing with Frozen Pipes 

1. Identify the Freeze: If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely locations include exterior walls or where the water service enters the home through the foundation. 

2. Apply Gentle Heat: Once you’ve located the frozen section, apply gentle heat with items like a hair dryer, heat tape, or a portable space heater. Never use open flame devices as these can cause pipes to burst or lead to a fire hazard. 

3. Open the Faucet: As you heat the frozen pipe, keep the faucet open. Running water through the pipe, as soon as you begin to thaw it, helps to melt the ice and relieve built-up pressure in the pipe, which can prevent bursting. 

4. Check for Leaks: Once pipes are thawed, check for any leaks that might have resulted from the freeze. Sometimes, frozen pipes can crack or burst and only begin to leak once they thaw. 

Professional Assistance 

If you are unable to locate the freeze, the situation does not resolve, or you prefer not to handle it yourself, it’s wise to call in professionals. Story Plumbing offers emergency services to handle frozen pipes and prevent potential disasters in your home. 

Don’t let frozen pipes chill your winter season. Contact Story Plumbing today for expert advice and professional services in Traverse City, ensuring your home is protected against the cold. Visit our website or call us to learn more about our comprehensive plumbing solutions and how we can assist you this winter.