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When water freezes, it expands in size. The pressure from the extra volume, as well as trapped air, is what ultimately ruptures pipes. And since February brings some of the coldest days of the year, homeowners tend to deal with frozen or bursting pipes. That’s why we here at Milhalko’s have put together a list to help prevent and deal with frozen pipes.

 

Dealing with Frozen Pipes

1. Prevention. Damage from frozen pipes often happens because a pipe in your home is located too close to an outside wall. Because of this, insulating your pipes may be the biggest favor you can do for yourself during the winter season. Additionally, dripping your faucets will help alleviate pressure from building within the pipes. And remember, it’s important to drip both the hot and cold levers since they are two separate pipes.

2. Locate Frozen Pipes. Despite all of the preventative actions you take, your pipes may still freeze. If this happens, it’s important to determine which pipes are frozen and then shut off their water supply. This will prevent any further build-up of pressure.

3. Apply Controlled Heat. Thawing out a pipe can be tricky business. Apply too much heat too fast and you may be dealing with a busted pipe! A method we recommend is using a hair dryer on low heat. First, make sure your faucets are open to release the pressure once the ice starts to thaw. Next, evenly distribute the heat from the hair dryer along the frozen areas of the pipe.

It’s mid-winter here in Western PA. Mihalko’s General Contracting can help save your home for the cold winter month by insulating your pipes. Trust the general contractor that has been serving its neighbors in the Johnstown PA, Latrobe PA, and Altoona PA area for over 34 years. Call Mihalko’s General Contracting today to stop further damage.

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