It’s that time of year again in New Jersey and at the time of this writing, it is almost below zero degrees.  When a cold snap occurs, frozen pipes are always a potential concern.  You should be prepared for this in the event that it occurs, and this blog post will help.

When water freezes inside pipes, it expands and can put immense pressure on the pipe, causing it to burst. The damage caused by a burst pipe can range from minor to severe, but it is always important to address the problem as quickly as possible to minimize further damage and potential health hazards.

The following are steps you can take if you have a frozen and burst pipe in your home:

  1. Shut off the water supply: If you have a burst pipe, the first thing you should do is turn off the water supply to your home. This will stop water from flowing into the damaged pipe and prevent further damage and flooding. To turn off the water supply, locate the main water shutoff valve, usually found near the water meter or where the main water line enters the home.
  2. Open faucets: Once you have turned off the water supply, open all of the faucets in your home to allow the water that is still in the pipes to escape. This will also help you determine which pipes have burst.
  3. Locate the burst pipe: If you are not sure where the burst pipe is, look for signs of water damage, such as damp walls or floors, or listen for the sound of water running. Once you have located the burst pipe, mark it for repair.
  4. Clean up the water: If there is water on the floor, use towels or a mop to clean it up as much as possible. Be careful as you clean up the water, as it may be contaminated with sewage or other hazardous materials.
  5. Remove any damaged items: If there are items that have been damaged by the water, such as furniture or rugs, remove them from the area and place them in a dry, well-ventilated space.
  6. Call a plumber: Once you have taken care of the initial cleanup, it is important to call a professional plumber to assess the damage and make the necessary repairs. The plumber will determine the cause of the burst pipe and make recommendations for repairing or replacing the damaged pipes.
  7. Prevention: To prevent pipes from freezing and bursting in the future, take the following steps:
  • Keep your home’s temperature at or above freezing, especially during extreme cold weather.
  • Insulate pipes, especially those that are in unheated areas or near exterior walls.
  • Seal any cracks or gaps in walls, floors, or around doors and windows to keep cold air from entering the home.
  • Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, and shut off the water supply to outdoor spigots.
  • Consider installing a heating tape or a similar device on pipes that are at risk of freezing.

In conclusion, frozen and burst pipes can cause significant damage to your home and be a major headache. However, by taking the necessary steps and being proactive, you can minimize the damage and get your home back to normal as soon as possible. Remember to call a professional plumber if you suspect that your pipes have frozen or if you have any concerns about the safety of your home’s plumbing system.

For more information, contact Vinny’s Jersey Plumbing, located in Wayne, New Jersey.  We also service other towns in New Jersey, such as Teaneck, Cliffside Park and Woodcliff Lake.