No doubt you still remember your early science classes in school where you were told that as water freezes, it expands. This is exactly the theory that is in play when the water pipes in your home freeze, they either expand or burst. As odd as it may seem, the pipe rarely breaks at the spot where the frozen water is located.
Typically, frozen pipes in Northbrook IL burst somewhere between the place where the freezing is and a closed faucet. When it freezes and then thaws, you get pressure buildup between the frozen area and the faucet. This problem primarily occurs where the pipe comes through an outside wall, as well as for pipes that run through a crawlspace.
Frozen But Not Yet Leaking:
When you identify a frozen pipe that has not yet burst, it must be thawed out immediately. There are a few methods you can try, depending on the location of the pipes.
* The first thing to do is open a faucet that is located beyond the frozen section of pipe, which allows the water to escape as the water thaws.
* Beginning at the faucet, start the thawing process. A good method is to use an electric hair drier, as a heat gun may get too hot. You can also wrap an old towel around the pipe and pour hot water on it.
* Keep working your way back up the pipe in the direction of the frozen area. Eventually, the frozen water will thaw and run freely.
Frozen And Leaking:
Frozen pipes in Northbrook IL will often expand to the point where either the pipe bursts or a fitting does. In cases like this, you must call a qualified plumber. The longer you let the situation stay as it is, the more damage there will be to your house.
It gets bitter cold in Chicagoland, so if you should have frozen pipes in Northbrook IL, you are well advised to call a plumber immediately. You are invited to contact Reliance Plumbing Sewer & Drainage, Inc.
