Keep your Water Pipes from Freezing
Each year hundreds of families and commercial spaces throughout Howard and Severn County Maryland have their lives disrupted each winter due to freezing sub zero temperatures. Such temperatures can prove to be extremely dangerous for your water pipes that are susceptible to freezing and bursting. When water pipes freeze and burst, calling a handyman or local Joe to fix the issue just won't cut it. For example, an eighth-inch crack in a pipe can spew up to 250 galls of water every day. If the pipe is plastic (PVC) or copper you can expect greater damage.
To save you and your wallet from such a devastating incident the staff at Magnolia Plumbing has put together this simple guide.
To avoid busting pipes during the winter months, homeowners and commercial space owners must take some precautions prior to winter's inevitable arrival. First, we suggest that you insulate pipes in your home's crawl space and attic. Bare pipes that are exposed to cold temperatures are much more likely to freeze. The more insulation you use the safer you are. Seal all leaks that will allow cold air inside areas where pipes are located. Caulk or insulation can be used to keep the cold air out and the heat in. All wiring, dryer vents, and pipes should be crack free. Remember to cap off all outdoor plumbing such as fountains and water hoses. Make sure the hoses are disconnected and that outside faucets are sealed with a cap.
When the winter weather hits, a small stream of hot and cold water will be all that you need in order to keep those pipes from freezing. A small trickle of warm water on a cold night will do wonders for your plumbing system. Opening cabinet doors will also allow the heat of your home to reach pipes that are tucked away.
If you or your family plans to leave Howard or Severn County this winter, Magnolia Plumbing suggests that you set your home or commercial space thermostat no lower than 55 F. Have a friend or neighbor check on your home daily to make sure all is well.
If in fact your pipes still freeze DO NOT take any personal liberties in fixing the issue. Call Magnolia Plumbing immediately. In some cases, homeowners believe that they can use a torch or open flame to thaw their pipes. We think that you will agree when we say that water damage is preferable to a home that is burnt down.