What to do if your pipes freeze.

Poughkeepsie NY, like all towns in the northeast experience freezing temperatures in the winter. When the power goes out, even for a brief period, there is risk that a pipe has frozen in a wall. If you come home to a “frozen” house follow these tips to make sure a minor inconvenience doesn’t turn in to a major disaster.

If your pipes have frozen, it’s important to act quickly to prevent them from bursting and causing water damage. Here are some steps you can take:

Turn off the water supply: Locate the main water shut-off valve and turn it off. This will prevent any additional water from entering the pipes and causing more pressure.

Open the faucets: Open the faucet that is closest to the frozen pipe. This will allow any water that is trapped in the pipe to escape as it thaws.

Apply heat to the frozen section: You can use a space heater, a hair dryer, or a heat lamp to apply heat to the frozen section of the pipe. Be sure to keep the heat source a safe distance away from any flammable materials.

Use hot towels: Soak towels in hot water and wrap them around the frozen pipe. This will help to gradually thaw the pipe.

Call a plumber: If you are unable to thaw the pipe yourself, or if the pipe has burst, it’s time to call a plumber. A professional plumber will be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

Remember, prevention is the best strategy. To avoid frozen pipes, insulate them properly, keep your home heated, and let water drip from faucets during extremely cold weather.