How to Identify and Prevent Frozen Pipes

1/3/2025 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Lower East Side Manhatten if you experience a burst pipe this winter

Water damage is a costly and challenging issue to fix. One way to prevent it is by taking steps to avoid frozen pipes before the cold weather arrives. As temperatures on the Lower East Side drop, here are some helpful tips to protect your pipes and prevent water damage this winter.

Faucets don’t work

If you turn on a faucet and only a small trickle of water comes out, it's a sign that a pipe may be frozen. Common areas for frozen pipes are along exterior walls or where the water line enters your home through the foundation because it has little or no insulation.

Keep the faucet open while you address the frozen pipe. As the ice begins to thaw, water will start to flow through the pipe. Allowing the water to run will help melt any remaining ice and restore normal water flow.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

When the weather gets into the single digits it is important to take steps to prevent your pipes from freezing to prevent a pipe bursting. 

Keep sink doors open

If your cabinet has exposed pipes, such as those under the sink, leave the cabinet doors open to allow warm household air to reach the pipes.

Leave a slow drip on 

You can also let a slow drip flow from the faucet farthest from where your water enters the home. A slow drip helps keep the water moving, lowering the risk of frozen pipes. To conserve water, consider placing a bucket underneath the faucet to collect the drips for other household uses.

Insulate your home

Ensure your home is properly insulated to retain heat during the winter, especially in areas with pipes.

Keep the heat on when you leave

If you plan to be away during cold weather, whether you have a week-long vacation or are away for a weekend, leave the heat on in your home, and set it to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

Contact SERVPRO® of Lower East Side Manhatten If You Experience a Pipe Burst 

If you experience frozen pipes that burst during the cold winter months, SERVPRO of Lower East Side Manhatten can help. Our focus is restoring your affected home to its pre-damaged condition. Visit our website to reach out to us.