The winter months are when Ottawa becomes extremely cold. It is so hard that the water freezes in exposed plumbing such as faucets and pipes. If that weren’t enough, freezing water with volumes more significant than the flow of water could break open lines if left for long enough! As dramatic as it sounds, there are solutions for frozen pipes repairs within Ocean County that can consider such situations within the realm of regular plumbing repairs.
To do that, we have to understand some things!
What Causes Water to Freeze Inside Pipes and Then Rupture the Pipe?
- Pipes Are Exposed, Either Intentionally or Unintentionally
Pipes that are buried deep in structures such as floors or walls are protected by covered with a thick layer of insulation that acts as barriers to keep the weather out. In these cases, water in pipes, without any direct connection to the outside world, doesn’t freeze, even though it is relatively cold. However, exposed lines face the danger of bearing the full force of the weather. The water is most likely to melt after being frozen and then refrozen. The volume of water increases to the point that it cannot contain within the pipe. The pipe then opens up. The pipe’s material is, in most instances, steel; the pressure builds up over time, resulting in the explosion.
- The Very Nature of Water Itself
Pipes burst when the water that flows through them grows in volume beyond what the lines can hold. In exerting pressure outward, the freezing ice explodes and escapes from the pipe.
What Should Get Done to Stop the Freezing Process of Water?
The best method to stop pipes from breaking is to decrease the pressure in the line if water doesn’t freeze! It happens when the effects of the weather get reduced on the ropes. It can achieve in two different ways:
- Re-Route Pipes to Minimize the Risk of Exposure
Pipes that must get exposed due to the lack of insulation on the outside walls must get routed differently to ensure that they get retained in well-insulated places.
- Cover Exposed Areas with Insulation
The insulation wears off over time and may require it to get put back into the correct position.
What Should Get Done in the Event of Freezing Pipes’ Water?
- The Exposed and Frozen Portion Carefully
The water that is frozen has to be warmed up quickly. If left for sufficient time, the water warms the pipe, and later the water begins slowly to flow. The heat of the lines and the flow of water must do gradually. Another way to heat your pipe would be to use anything that will warm the air around the pipe, such as hand-held dryers like hair dryers. You can also use the flame torch, but it shouldn’t use close to the line if it cuts and breaks the pipe because of the intense temperature it generates.
- Keep the Pipe on the Other End Unlocked to Monitor the State
The water heats and can flow through the pipe until the faucet. The faucet should remain open to the maximum possible degree. When the time comes, the water supply will restore to normal.
What Is the Procedure to Follow When a Pipe Blows Up?
- Stop the Flow of Water Further into the Pipe
Pipe bursts signal that the water inside has frozen. However, one must shut off the water supply until the time of a pipe explosion.
- Speak to a Specialist
Pipe bursts, even generally plumbing repairs, are the job of experts in the repair and replacement of water lines services provided by Ottawa Plumbing Service. It is logical to employ their services to finish the job professionally.
- Cover Exposed Areas with Insulation
With the expert present, it is logical to repair exposed areas of the pipe that were damaged when the freezing occurred.
No matter what plumbing needs you, Ottawa Plumbing Service has friendly, skilled technicians who can help, whether it’s a simple or complex emergency repair or the thawing of frozen pipes. Call our trusted Ottawa plumbers at (613) 317-1682 or email us at info@ottawaplumbingservice.com.
