You can prevent a burst pipe. However, if this event occurs, you should call a plumber immediately and turn off the water in your home. Also, if flooding occurs, you need to remove yourself the water-saturated areas, especially if the electricity has not been switched off.

Taking Precautions

When the outside temperature plummets, the number of calls for emergency plumbing services in Richmond increase. That is why you do not want to face this type of plumbing issue if it can be avoided. Because burst pipes are one of the most common reasons for property damage in the winter, you need to learn some preventative measures.

What You Need to Know

The following information should help prevent burst pipes in your home:

  • The pipes that are at the highest risk for bursting are located in unheated spaces, such as the loft, basement, or garage. Pipes that run through cupboards can also freeze.
  • Adding pipe insulation can drastically reduce the risk of a frozen pipe. The insulation is not expensive and can save you greatly by helping you avoid paying the costs for water damage clean-up.
  • Keep the garage doors shut during the winter if water pipes are located in the garage.
  • Allow cold water to drip from a tap that is connected to an exposed pipe. Even a trickle of water running through a line will prevent a pipe from bursting.
  • Open up cupboard doors so warm air can circulate in the space.

Time Is of the Essence

If your pipes need thawing and you cannot access the frozen area, contact a plumber to take care of the problem as soon as possible. Time is of the essence when a pipe is not adequately insulated or cannot be thawed.