Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break.
Pipes that freeze most frequently are:
In the event that a pipe in your residence or place of business freezes, it is crucial that you contact a licensed, professional plumber right away. It is necessary to take action to stop a pipe from bursting and to protect your property from harm. Give us a call ASAP if you have any emergency with a burst pipe. Emergency response available for homes & businesses in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens & Long Island.
Pipes can freeze when the temperature drops below freezing (32°F or 0°C) and the water inside the pipes begins to freeze. This can cause the water to expand and potentially damage the pipes.
Some signs of frozen pipes include little to no water coming out of the faucet, a strange odor coming from the faucet or drain, frost on visible pipes, and strange noises coming from the pipes
If you suspect that you have frozen pipes, the first thing you should do is turn off your main water supply to prevent further damage. Then, you should contact a licensed plumber who can safely thaw the pipes and assess any damage that may have occurred.
To prevent pipes from freezing, you can take several precautions such as insulating exposed pipes, keeping your home heated to at least 55°F (12°C) when you’re away, and allowing water to trickle from faucets during very cold weather. Additionally, disconnecting garden hoses and
shutting off the water supply to outdoor faucets can help prevent frozen pipes.