What to do if your pipes burst during winter

IF YOU PIPES BREAK OR FREEZE

What should I do if my pipes freeze? If you turn on a faucet and get no water, your pipes may be frozen. If your pipes freeze, there are some procedures that can follow to thaw them. The sooner the problem is recognized, the better chance that damage will be minimized.

Some techniques for thawing frozen pipes include:

If possible, expose a boxed in area to the inside heat. An example includes opening some ceiling tiles, cabinet doors, etc. to allow the warmer air in.

You can use a heat gun to thaw pipes. However, be extremely careful as the heat from the heat gun will ignite wood or paper it contacts.

Do NOT use torches to thaw pipes!!

Rubbing the pipes with a warm damp rag may slowly thaw the line.

If you do not have water for an extended period of time, special attention should be given to hot water heaters and boilers.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF A PIPE BREAKS?

Shut off your water immediatlely, using your homes shut-off valve and call a plumber.

WHERE ARE MY SHUT-OFF VALVES?

There are two major shut-off valves in line with your service, or atleast, there should be. The first valve, called the “curb-stop” or “street-shut-off”, is generally located near the property line and is normally housed by a cylinder with a cap on it call the curb-box.  The other major valve is located in the home next to the water meter. Other valves may be near plumbing appliances (individual fixture shut-offs), such as at the sinks or toilets.

Keeping your main shut-off valve in good working condition will assure you that you will be able to turn your water off in the event of an emergency, in case one of your water pipes breaks. For example, older style gate valves should be turned periodically due to possible corrosion build-up. Newer ball-valves should stay in working order without any regular turning.

WHAT IF MY MAIN VALVE DOES NOT WORK IN AN EMERGENCY?

You should call your local Public Works Department or a plumber so they can shut off your water.

TO PREVENT THIS:

Have your pipes insulated, get your home winterized and call your local plumber for an inspection of your main shut off valve. Be proactive!! Call today!

 

**Source: Weather Channel / City of Keene, New Hampshire***