How To: Prevent and Thaw Frozen Pipes
Even though California isn’t known for its ice and snow, temperatures can drop to subzero overnight!
With temperatures dropping to below freezing around the country, it’s important to be prepared for the cooler weather’s effect on your water pipes. While Walnut Creek in California is rarely subject to ice, overnight temperatures can rapidly drop below freezing. As a property manager, it’s imperative to protect the building and reduce any risks of water or pipe damage!
Here are some top tips to stand your business in good stead!
Take preventative action:
- Allow cooling water to drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe helps prevent pipes from freezing.
- Seal any gaps around the property where cold air may penetrate and become in contact with piping. Even the tiniest opening can let in enough cold air to cause a pipe to freeze.
- Insulate exterior pipes.
- Drain water from your sprinklers and hoses.
- Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during both day and night.
Handle frozen pipes:
- Turn off the property’s main water valve and leave the faucets open until pipes thaw!
- Do not apply an open flame, electronic heaters, or hair dryers directly to the piping! Patience and a warm environment are the best way to thaw pipes without causing damage.
- When turning the main water valve back on, have one person slowly turn the valve on while another person walks on the property to be sure that no water is leaking.
As a property and facility manager, a water leak can severely hurt your building and business! For easy property management of your business and safe upkeep of your property, contact Landport Systems in Walnut Creek, California.
