Tips for Preventing and Repairing Frozen Pipes

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

Broken pipe in Santa Maria, CA

Sweaters, snowfall and skating in Santa Maria, CA, are some of the best parts of the winter season. Running a business in a cold weather climate, however, has its unique challenges. As a commercial property owner, one of your biggest worries specific to cold weather is the possibility of water damage from frozen pipes.

How To Prevent Frozen Pipes

When water freezes, it expands and increases pressure in pipes. This pressure is what often leads to broken pipes in the colder months. Reduce the risk of water damage by implementing preventative measures:

• Drain and disconnect outdoor hoses and supply lines. Close all inside valves leading to outside lines, but leave outside valves open to release pressure due to expansion.
• Insulate all areas of your commercial property that have pipes running through the space. This includes basements, garages and attics.
• Insulate exposed plumbing, especially water supply lines, in areas that tend to receive less heat or air circulation.
• If you shut your business down during the cold weather, leave the heat on a low temperature (minimum 50 degrees) and turn off the water main.

How To Repair Broken Pipes

Sometimes a pipe freezes and thaws without serious implications. Other times a pipe breaks and water cleanup is unavoidable. In these cases, take the following actions to lessen the potential damage from water:

• To thaw a frozen pipe, leave the faucet on to encourage the flow of water. Apply gentle heat to the frozen area of the pipe if accessible.
• After a pipe breaks, turn off the water main to the building. Call your insurance agent to see if the damage is covered under your policy. Contact a water restoration specialist to dry, clean and restore your property.

When possible, prevent and thaw frozen pipes at your commercial property in Santa Maria, CA. If broken pipes ensue, act fast to reduce water damage to the structure and contents of your business.