The Name You Trust for your
WATER LEAKS

Frozen pipes can be frustrating to deal with and the only way to address them is by calling a professional plumber. There is no such thing as quick fixes when it comes to frozen pipes, but these techniques can prevent further damage while waiting for a plumber to resolve the issue.

Turn On The Faucet

If you suspect a frozen pipe, you will need to locate the source of the problem by turning on your faucet. Either a trickle will come out or there's no water flowing at all. Frozen pipes can also escape through exterior walls or the foundation where your water service enters.

Leave The Faucet Open

As you start to thaw the frozen pipes, water will flow through the frozen area, and keeping your faucet open allows melted ice to run through the pipe.

Apply Heat

Applying heat can melt the ice but you should perform this technique with caution because too much heat can also cause the pipes to burst due to the sudden change in temperature. Avoid using kerosene, propane heater, blowtorch, or any open flame devices.

Check All Faucets

If you've already determined which pipes are frozen, you might also consider checking all other faucets because it's also possible for other pipes to freeze. This step is better left to 1-800-Plumber +Air of Portland as they can thoroughly inspect your pipes and provide a sure-fire solution.

Burst Pipe Causes

You can prevent pipes from bursting if you pay attention to warning signs. Here are common reasons pipes burst.

Corrosion

If pipes are made out of steel or metal, it is most likely to corrode. Corrosion is inevitable especially if pipes have been serving your home for years. The years of too much water use might have taken their toll on your steel pipes. There isn't much you can do to prevent corrosion in steel pipes. Contact us so we can replace them with plastic or copper pipes and make your problems with corrosion a thing of the past.

Freezing

In areas where temperatures can drop to 0 degrees Fahrenheit, pipes become susceptible to freezing. When water freezes and accumulates in a specific area of the pipe, more pressure will be applied to that area and when it's more than your pipes can handle, it will eventually burst.

Clogs

Clogs can also affect the efficiency of pipes because of the undue pressure that starts to build up. When the accumulation of pressure is too much for pipes to bear, it will crack and cause leaks. There are many reasons your pipes become clogged so be mindful with what you throw down your drains.

Tree Root Encroachment

As trees grow, roots will crawl further in the soil until it makes contact with water pipes. In most cases, water pipes can't withstand pressure from tree roots. When roots continue to apply pressure, pipes will start to crack.

Soil Shifting

There are instances when the soil around pipes shifts. When this happens, water pipes will begin to burst. It's important to check the proximity of the soil to the pipes to prevent burst pipes.

High Water Pressure

Home water pipes should not exceed 60 psi, to prevent pressure from rising. When pressure rises, it can impair pipes and cause water to slow down. You will need to utilize plumbing services at 1-800-Plumber +Air of Portland to assess the problem and take necessary steps to fix it.