Test Your Knowledge: Frozen Pipes

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

Winter is in full swing in Brown County, which means a higher probability for frozen pipes within your home or business.

A burst pipe can be costly and time-consuming to remediate. Protect your prized personal possessions or essential business equipment from damage by preventing frozen pipes.

Do you know how to prevent pipes from freezing, or could you manage pipes that are already frozen? 

Let's test your knowledge with these five questions.

1. Prevent pipes from freezing by setting your thermostat no lower than:

A. 32 degrees

B. 55 degrees

C. 68 degrees

2. Pipes actually freeze when the temperature reaches 32°.

True

False

3. If it is extremely cold outside, you should keep water faucets running.

True

False

4. When pipes freeze, they always burst.

 True

 False

5. What should you NOT do if you suspect you have a frozen pipe?

A. Shut off the main water valve.

B. Leave faucets open until repairs are made.

C. Get a hand-held torch and start thawing the pipe.

The correct answers for this quiz are listed at the end of the blog post.

Now that you tested your knowledge of frozen pipes, here are a few more signs to look for whenever the temperature drops.

There Is Frost on the Pipe

For pipes that can actively be seen, such as those under sinks, you may be able to see frost that has accumulated on the exterior of the pipe. This can serve as a warning sign that the pipe is frozen before you ever try to turn on the faucet.

Strange Smells

Another potential sign of a blocked pipe is an odd smell coming from a faucet or drain. If the pipe is partially or entirely blocked, the only way the odor can escape is back up in the direction of your property.

Once you are aware that a pipe is frozen, act quickly to thaw the pipe. Depending on the location of the pipe and your level of expertise, you can attempt to thaw the pipe yourself. If you still feel uncertain about the process, it's best to contact a licensed plumber to thaw the pipe for you. It is imperative to thaw the pipe as soon as possible to avoid it from bursting and causing extensive damage to your property.

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of West Brown County is strategically located to respond quickly to your water damage event. Our trained technicians receive ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications to give your residential or business property the attention it deserves. 

If you unexpectedly find yourself in need of our services over the holiday season, give us a call at (920) 434-8224.

ANSWERS

1. 55 degrees - For most homes and businesses, setting the thermostat no lower than 55 degrees assures that warm air circulates throughout the building, protecting your pipes from freezing.
2. False - No, they won’t. Pipes freeze when the heat is transferred from the water inside the pipe to the surrounding air. This means that the surrounding air temperature has to fall well below 32° for the pipes to freeze.
3. True - Always keep one or two faucets running slowly. Water moving through the system should prevent the line from freezing.
4. False - Pipes can freeze without bursting. You can reduce the likelihood of a frozen pipe bursting by shutting off the main water supply valve and draining the system by opening faucets throughout the house or office.
5. Never use a torch, gas heater, candles, or anything with an open flame to thaw pipes.