Normally, winter comes early in Maine as temperatures drop when most parts of the country are still enjoying fall and their pumpkin spice lattes.
Extreme cold puts pipes at risk. As water freezes, it expands and can rupture your plumbing. In fact, burst pipes can easily cause $5,000 in damage or more, according to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety.
Technically, it is not the ice expanding in the pipes that causes them to burst. It is the pressure caused by the freezing of the pipes. If the water thaws before too much pressure builds up, the pipe will not burst. It is important to first avoid water freezing in pipes, but if it happens, the pipes need to thaw quickly before the pressure builds and the line bursts.
Here is what you need to know to prevent frozen pipes in Maine:
Signs of frozen pipes
The most obvious sign that a frozen pipe is possible happens when the outside temperature drops below 20 degrees. If you have visible pipes, you may notice frost on the line. You may also smell strange odors coming from drains because the only outlet from the blockage is back into the property.
Why you should call a plumber if your pipes are frozen
If your pipes are frozen, it is important to thaw them as quickly as possible. Calling a plumber in Maine is your quickest and safest solution, and the clock is ticking. The longer your pipes are frozen, the greater the pressure that can ultimately burst your pipes and cost you thousands in repairs and clean up.
How to weatherize your home to keep pipes from freezing
It is best to prepare your home for the frigid Maine temperatures. First, seal any leaks coming into the home with caulk or insulation — especially air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents and pipes. Wrap pipes in heat tape or heat cables with thermostat control. Add insulation to attics, walls and crawl spaces. Hire a plumber to install pipe installation to all your piping.
Before winter arrives, hire a plumber to inspect your pipes and to spot any potential areas that could be prone to freezing. A plumber referred by Plumbers 911 can help you seal tiny openings that could lead to a freeze.
Ways to avoid frozen pipes when the temperature drops
As the temperature drops, there are steps you can take to prevent frozen pipes. For instance, open your kitchen and cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around your plumbing. Leave a slight drip running in a faucet. This will keep water circulating so it does not freeze. If you leave the home for a day or two, set the thermostat to at least 60 degrees to avoid pipes freezing.
Need help? Call Plumbers 911!
If you have frozen pipes, call Plumbers 911 right away! We can send a qualified, emergency plumber in Maine to your house.
Plumbers 911 is a network of quality professional plumbers who provide emergency plumbing service to Maine. All our qualified plumbers are highly skilled and trained to handle any plumbing emergency.
Our qualified Maine plumbers can also inspect your plumbing and prepare it for winter to avoid frozen pipes.
Call Plumbers 911 for a referral to a qualified plumber today!
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