How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Taking preventative measures can save you from costly repairs and water damage caused by burst pipes. Follow these steps to protect your home:
- Inspect for leaks. Check all exposed indoor and outdoor pipes for leaks.
- Insulate your pipes. Locate exposed pipes in your attic, garage, or crawl spaces and wrap them with plumbing insulation foam to protect against freezing.
- Drain your evaporative cooler or swamp cooler. Turn off the cooler’s water and power, then drain the water supply line and water from the cooler.
- Insulate and heat your pump house. For homes with a well, ensure your pump house piping is well insulated and the heater is working to maintain a temperature above freezing.
- Protect your hose bibs. Disconnect garden hoses, drain collected water from the bibs, and insulate them to prevent freezing.
- Winterize your sprinkler system. Turn off the water supply and drain the lines by opening each valve connected to the sprinkler system.
- Locate your water main. In case of a burst pipe emergency, knowing where your water shutoff valve is located can help you quickly minimize damage. Ensure you have easy access to the shutoff valve.
Frozen Water Pipes Need Attention From an Experienced Plumber
During St. Louis winters, temperatures often dip below 32°F, which can cause water pipes to freeze. If untreated, frozen pipes can burst and cause major damage to your home. In extreme cold, pipes can freeze quickly, making it essential to act fast and call a reliable plumber to address the issue.
Steps to Take When a Pipe Bursts
If your pipe has burst, follow these steps to limit damage:
1. Shut Off the Water Main
Locate the main water valve, typically connected to the street, and turn it off immediately.
2. Turn Off the Electricity
To prevent potential hazards from water and electricity, shut off the power at the circuit breaker.
3. Trace the leak. Locate the burst pipe.
While you shouldn’t attempt a DIY repair, this information can be helpful when scheduling a plumber.
4. Schedule a Plumbing Repair
Hire a licensed plumber to fix the burst pipe. Insurance claims are often contingent on work being performed by licensed professionals.
Have Questions? Need Help?
At Hoffmann Brothers, we can repair burst pipes and handle any related HVAC or electrical damage. Contact us at (314) 373-1848 for assistance.
Frozen Pipes in Your Home?
Sometimes frozen pipes are mistaken for clogged drains or lines. Hoffmann Brothers plumbers are equipped to help you identify and address frozen pipes before they cause more significant damage to your home. Call us at (314) 373-1848 if you suspect a problem.
Hoffmann Brothers’ Service Areas
We proudly serve St. Louis, Metro East, and surrounding areas, including Kirkwood, Ballwin, Chesterfield, and Edwardsville. For a complete list of service areas or additional information, call (314) 373-1848.
Don’t wait for a pipe to burst! Call Hoffmann Brothers today for expert assistance.Click to Watch Hoffmann Brothers’ Fox2 St Louis TV Interview