Frozen Pipes = Water Damage

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Below Average Temps can cause pipes to freeze & burst.

Ice storms bring devastation to southern states that are not prepared for freezing weather. San Antonio is not prone to this type of weather so having snow or ice removal equipment to clear streets and bridges is very limited. The public is unfamiliar with the driving hazards poses by icy streets. Property damage from freezing can be extreme. Pipe insulation and the placement of pipes is not prepared to ward off deep freezing.  

If your pipes do freeze

What if your pipes still freeze, despite your best preventive measures? First step: Don't panic. Just because they're frozen doesn't mean they've already burst. Here's what you can do:

• If you turn on your faucets and nothing comes out, leave the faucets turned on and call a plumber.
• Do not use electrical appliances in areas of standing water. You could be electrocuted.
• Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame because it could cause a fire hazard. Water damage is preferable to burning down your house!
• You may be able to thaw a frozen pipe using a hair dryer. Start by warming the pipe as close to the faucet as possible, working toward the coldest section of pipe.
• If your water pipes have already burst, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve in the house; leave the water faucets turned on. Make sure everyone in your family knows where the water shutoff valve is and how to open and close it.

Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio for your restoration needs at: (210) 899-1017 or visit our website at www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/