Three Ways to Prevent a Burst Pipe

Top Three Ways to Prevent a Burst Pipe

Freezing temperatures play havoc with pipes inside and outside of Round Lake homes and businesses. The top three ways to prevent a burst pipe are:

1. Regular pipe inspections

2. Insulation

3. Adequate Heating

1. Pipe Inspections Prevent Future Problems

In most homes and businesses, extremes in temperatures can cause pipe to burst. To prevent this, a professional plumber should perform regular pipe inspections. During a piping inspection, plumbing pros test the pressure levels of the pipes and the overall pipe condition to determine any weak areas in piping, elbows and joints.

2. Insulation

One of the best investments that plumbers suggest is pipe insulation. While this isn’t the only answer to prevent a burst pipe, it is a good way to reduce the potential for frozen pipes and bursting. Plumbers suggest a specific type of insulation best suited for residential and commercial pipes and install insulation where applicable.

3. Adequate Heating

If pipes are frozen, it’s best to seek the immediate assistance of an experienced plumber. Do-it-yourself can incur more damage to a burst pipe and additional costs for repairs. Most pipes burst when exposed to extreme cold due to loss of adequate heat in the location of these pipes.

When the plumber arrives, water to the pipe will be turned off to prevent further water damage during the initial inspection and repair phases. Next, the burst pipe will be sealed or replaced, depending on the severity of the pipe’s condition. In addition, the plumber may utilize a specially equipped pipe heating device to thaw severely frozen pipes.

Then the water will be turned on and cold water will be run through the pipe to slowly thaw any remaining ice in the line. The plumber will run warmer water through the pipe until it flows smoothly. If insulation is needed, this is the point where it should be installed.

When a Pipe Bursts – Call a Plumber

Plumbing experts have a wide range of experience in residential and commercial plumbing problems. As temperatures begin to drop, call a Round Lake plumber for a general plumbing inspection before an emergency occurs. Don’t wait till sub zero weather to protect pipes from bursting. Plumbers can spot potential problems quickly and help prevent further damage. It’s well worth it to have pipes inspected before temperatures are below freezing than to suffer the stress and inconvenience of a burst pipe.

Avoid a costly pipe burst with these key tips! Call Duane Blanton Plumbing at (815) 781-2567 for repairs in your Round Lake, IL home.