Thank Your Plumbers — For Real!

What Every Business Owner Should Know About Frozen Pipes

28 September 2023 by Bill Turner

If you’re a business owner, dealing with frozen pipes can be a serious headache. Frozen pipes commonly occur during the colder months when temperatures dip below the freezing point. However, there are several things you can do to prevent and deal with frozen pipes. This post will explore how to avoid the winter catastrophe of frozen pipes.

Insulate Your Pipes

One of the main reasons why pipes freeze is because they’re exposed to cold air. Insulating your pipes can effectively reduce the chances of them freezing. Pipe insulation is a relatively simple and inexpensive solution that can help prevent frozen pipes. It involves covering pipes with foam insulation sleeves or wrapping them with heat tape.

Keep the Heat On

Even if you’re not using your building, it’s important to keep the heat on during the colder months. By keeping the temperature of your building warm, you can prevent your pipes from freezing. To prevent such situations, you may need to install a programmable thermostat that can intelligently regulate the temperature according to your presence in the building. This not only enhances convenience but also promotes energy efficiency.

Let the Faucet Drip

To prevent frozen pipes, consider allowing your faucets to drip. The steady flow of water reduces the likelihood of freezing. Additionally, opening cabinet doors facilitates the circulation of warm air around the pipes. This becomes particularly crucial in areas devoid of a heat source.

Shut Off and Drain Your Pipes

If you’re going to be away from your business for an extended period of time during the colder months, it’s a good idea to shut off and drain your pipes. Shut off the main water valve, open the faucets, and let the water drain from the pipes. By taking this preventive measure, the chances of experiencing frozen pipes and the consequent water damage can be significantly reduced.

Call a Professional

If you’re experiencing frozen pipes or are unsure how to take preventative measures, it’s always best to consult with a professional. An experienced plumber can identify potential issues and provide recommendations to safeguard your business against frozen pipes.

Don’t let frozen pipes ruin your business operations and cause financial losses. By taking preventative measures like insulating your pipes, keeping the heat on, letting faucets drip, shutting off and draining your pipes, and calling professionals, you can reduce the likelihood of your pipes freezing. Remember, prevention is key. Be sure to take the necessary precautions before the winter months arrive to ensure your business's plumbing system can handle the colder temperatures.

For more information, contact a plumber near you.

Share  

Search